Stewed tomatoes are a versatile and timeless dish that transforms fresh tomatoes into a rich and flavorful creation. This comforting dish is achieved by gently simmering tomatoes with aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a savory and versatile base that can be enjoyed on its own, as a topping, or as a base for various recipes. Whether served as a side, a sauce, or a foundation for stews and soups, stewed tomatoes bring a touch of warmth and simplicity to the table.

INGREDIENTS

• 6-8 ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cut a small ‘X’ at the bottom of each tomato. Carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. The skins should peel off easily. Remove the skins, cut the tomatoes in half, and gently squeeze out the seeds. Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Tomatoes:
   • Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, along with the dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
   • Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the tomatoes are particularly acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.
4. Gentle Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the tomatoes gently simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will break down and release their juices, creating a flavorful sauce.
5. Adjust Consistency:
   • If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave the stewed tomatoes as is. For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to your desired thickness.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the stewed tomatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the desired flavor profile.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Remove the bay leaf from the stewed tomatoes.
   • Serve the stewed tomatoes as a side dish, sauce, or base for other recipes. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

TIPS:

• Tomato Varieties: Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Different tomato varieties can yield slightly different flavors, so feel free to experiment with heirloom, plum, or cherry tomatoes.
• Texture Preference: The level of cooking time and blending will determine the final texture of your stewed tomatoes. Adjust the simmering time and blending to achieve the consistency you prefer.

Stewed tomatoes offer a delightful way to enjoy the essence of fresh tomatoes in a comforting and versatile form. By following these instructions and tips, you’ll create a flavorful base that can be used in various dishes or enjoyed simply as a satisfying side.