Eggplant Stew with Tomatoes (Domatesli Patlican)

Eggplant Stew with Tomatoes (Domatesli Patlican)

2 eggplants, washed and peeled
2 tomatoes, diced / 1 ½ cups diced tomato in a can
1 big onion, chopped
1 tsp tomato paste (optional)
1 green pepper, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp basil (optional)
½ cup hot water

Cut the eggplants in cubes and place into a bowl covered with water. Leave for 15-20 minutes. Then rinse and drain.
In a pot, sauté onions with olive oil. Then stir in tomato paste (optional) and peppers. Saute them over medium heat and then stir in eggplants. Saute for 3-4 minutes. Finally add salt, hot water, basil and tomatoes. Do not stir, just leave tomatoes on top and cover the lid. Cook for 20-25 minutes over low heat till eggplants are tender.
Sprinkle black pepper on top and stir.
Serve Eggplant Stew with Tomatoes warm or cool, with yogurt orcacik as you like.