Classic Stewed Tomatoes

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a comforting bowl of Classic Stewed Tomatoes, perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something simple yet satisfying. This dish is a testament to the beauty of ripe tomatoes, slowly simmered to perfection with herbs and spices that enhance their natural sweetness and tang.

Ingredients for Classic Stewed Tomatoes

The star of this recipe is, of course, the tomatoes. Choose ripe, juicy ones for the best flavor, as they break down beautifully and create a luscious base. Onion and garlic add depth and aromatic richness. A bit of olive oil helps to sauté the aromatics, making them sweeter and more flavorful. Adding sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while salt and pepper round out the seasoning. Dried basil and oregano contribute a hint of Mediterranean flair, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offers a subtle kick. Finally, fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the dish just before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • For easy peeling, blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute and then transfer them to ice water.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the stew to your desired consistency.
  • Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

This stewed tomato dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy polenta. It can also be served as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or even as a sauce for pasta. For a comforting meal, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Opt for whole peeled tomatoes and break them down as they cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

Classic Stewed Tomatoes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add the onion and garlic. Sauté them gently until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about five minutes. This step is crucial because it releases the onion's natural sweetness and mellows the garlic's sharpness.

Next, introduce the chopped tomatoes into the pot. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and a dash of red pepper flakes. Stir everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it's bubbling, lower the heat to maintain a gentle bubble. Let it cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes. You'll want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and you'll notice the tomatoes breaking down, creating a thick, hearty consistency.

As the stew thickens and fills your kitchen with its delightful aroma, stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice just before serving. These fresh additions will lift the flavors and add a beautiful contrast to the rich tomato base.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients for optimal flavor.
  • Easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
  • Packs a punch with vibrant herbs and a hint of spice.
  • Versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

3 lbs ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice before serving.

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