Rustic Garden Stewed Tomatoes

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Rustic Garden Stewed Tomatoes is your go-to dish for savoring the peak of summer's bounty. This recipe captures the essence of fresh tomatoes, mingling with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a comforting and delightful medley.

Ingredients for Rustic Garden Stewed Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the star of the show, providing the base with their natural sweetness and acidity. Choose ripe ones for maximum flavor. Onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth, while garlic infuses the stew with a fragrant, savory aroma. Green bell pepper brings a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness. The olive oil enriches the dish, bringing everything together smoothly. A touch of sugar rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes, and basil and oregano provide an earthy, aromatic touch. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat, making each bite exciting. Finally, salt and pepper tie everything together, enhancing each ingredient's natural flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a variety of tomato types for a richer flavor profile.
  • Peeling tomatoes is easier if you blanch them in boiling water for a minute.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar if you like a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

This stewed tomato dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping. It's also fantastic over a bed of pasta or rice. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. If you're feeling adventurous, top it with a poached egg for a rustic brunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze stewed tomatoes?
Yes, they freeze well! Just let them cool completely before transferring them into freezer-safe containers.
What if I don't have fresh tomatoes?
You can use canned tomatoes, but adjust the cooking time since they are already peeled and chopped.

Rustic Garden Stewed Tomatoes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir them around, letting them sauté until the onions turn translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes, and your kitchen will smell amazing by now.

Next, add the green bell pepper to the pot. Give it a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pepper softens up and releases its flavor into the mix.

Now, it's time for the starring role. Pour in your peeled and chopped tomatoes. Add the sugar, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well, ensuring the herbs and spices are evenly distributed.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes. Give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld beautifully.

Once it’s cooked down to a thick, luscious consistency, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect use for an abundance of garden-fresh tomatoes.
  • Aromatic and flavorful with a hint of spice.
  • Simple ingredients, big impact.
  • Versatile enough to be a side or a main dish.

Ingredients

3 lbs ripe tomatoes (peeled and chopped)
1 large onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in green bell pepper, cook for 2 minutes until softened.
4. Add tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

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