How to Make Stewed Tomatoes?: Easy Guide in 2024

Introduction

Stewed tomatoes are a versatile and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a base for your favorite recipes, learning how to make stewed tomatoes is a valuable skill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, sharing tips and tricks to help you create the perfect batch every time.

How to Make Stewed Tomatoes ?

Ingredients

How to Make Stewed Tomatoes?

Course: SideCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

70

kcal

To make stewed tomatoes, you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Directions

• Begin by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. This process will make peeling the skin effortless.
• Peel and chop the tomatoes, discarding the cores.
• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
• Simmer the mixture on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the flavors intensify.
• Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil

Preparing the Tomatoes

Start by selecting ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Roma or plum tomatoes work well, but any variety will do. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes.

Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water and let them cook for 30-60 seconds, or until the skins begin to split. Remove the tomatoes from the water using a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

Once the tomatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and discard them. Cut the tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds and excess liquid. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and set them aside.

Cooking the Stewed Tomatoes

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the prepared tomatoes to the skillet, along with the sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the tomatoes cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes, or until they have broken down and reached your desired consistency.

Enhancing the Flavor

To add depth and complexity to your stewed tomatoes, consider experimenting with additional ingredients. Here are a few ideas:

• Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Stewed tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Spoon them over grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or fish.
• Use them as a base for soups, stews, or chili.
• Toss them with pasta for a quick and easy meal.
• Serve them alongside scrambled eggs or omelets for a satisfying breakfast.
• Enjoy them on their own as a simple side dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover stewed tomatoes, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the tomatoes have thickened too much during storage, you can thin them out with a splash of water or broth.

Pairing Suggestions:

Stewed tomatoes are a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Consider serving them alongside:

1. Grilled or roasted meats: The acidity and depth of flavor in stewed tomatoes pair beautifully with the savory notes of grilled steak, beef chops, or chicken.
2. Seafood dishes: The brightness of the tomatoes can balance the richness of seafood, such as pan-seared salmon or shrimp scampi.
3. Vegetarian options: Stewed tomatoes can add a burst of flavor to vegetarian meals like stuffed bell peppers, eggplant parmesan, or a hearty grain bowl.

Experiment with different pairings to discover new flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Variations:

While this basic recipe for stewed tomatoes is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it to your liking:

1. Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
2. Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to create unique flavor profiles.
3. Creamy texture: For a richer, creamier consistency, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Vegetable-packed: Boost the nutritional value by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the stewed tomatoes.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Cooking is an opportunity for self-expression and personal growth, so embrace the journey and enjoy the process.

Meal Prep and Storage:

Stewed tomatoes are an excellent choice for meal prepping, as they can be made in advance and stored for later use. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

1. Refrigerator storage: Allow the stewed tomatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. Freezer storage: To extend the shelf life, portion the cooled stewed tomatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: Thaw frozen stewed tomatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat refrigerated or thawed stewed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Having a batch of stewed tomatoes on hand can simplify meal planning and make it easier to incorporate nutritious, homemade elements into your daily life. By dedicating some time to meal prepping, you’ll be taking a proactive step towards self-care and wellness.

Conclusion

How to Make Stewed Tomatoes? Making stewed tomatoes is a simple yet rewarding process that can transform your meals. By following these steps and experimenting with different flavors, you’ll be able to create a delicious and versatile dish that your family and friends will love. So, the next time you find yourself with an abundance of ripe tomatoes, give this recipe a try and savor the comforting taste of homemade stewed tomatoes.