Soslu patlican (Turkish eggplant recipe)

Preheat your oven to 400° F. (205° C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. You can get away with just one baking sheet, but the eggplant cooks better when there is more room for hot air to circulate around the pieces.
In a mixing bowl, toss the diced eggplant with 150 ml of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it evenly on the prepared baking sheets. Roast for 35-40 minutes until the eggplant pieces are completely soft.
While the eggplant is roasting, heat the tablespoon of olive oil in a large, thick-bottomed pan or pot over medium heat. After 90 seconds, when the oil is hot, add the diced onion, garlic, Aleppo pepper flakes, and bell pepper. Cook until they soften but don’t brown, stirring regularly. This should take about 7-8 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 8-9 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices and cook down slightly, stirring occasionally.
Fold the roasted eggplant into the sauce. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors of the sauce to absorb into the eggplant. Avoid over-stirring to prevent the eggplant from breaking into a mash.
Serve the dish hot or at room temperature, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, Aleppo pepper flakes, and very finely minced red onion if desired.