If you're looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy, then these Sweet & Spicy Stewed Tomatoes are just what you need. This recipe is all about enhancing the natural flavors of ripe tomatoes with a touch of brown sugar and a hint of heat. It's a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals.
Tomatoes: The star of the show, ripe tomatoes provide a juicy and tangy base. Blanching and peeling them ensures a smooth texture in the stew.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Introduces a sharpness that brightens the dish, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it brings a subtle richness to the onions and garlic.
Onion: Finely chopped, it provides a savory depth that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
Garlic: Its pungent flavor is essential for that classic, comforting aroma.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
Cinnamon: A touch of warmth and complexity, it enhances the sweetness without overpowering.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
This stewed tomato dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or fish. It's also a great topping for crostini or served over a bed of rice or quinoa. For a vegetarian option, try it alongside roasted vegetables or as a sauce over pasta.
Begin by preparing your tomatoes. Boil a pot of water and set up an ice bath nearby. Take each tomato and score the bottom with an X using a sharp knife. This will make peeling much easier. Once the water is boiling, drop the tomatoes in for about 30 seconds. You'll see the skin start to peel away at the X.
Quickly transfer the tomatoes to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once they're cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and chop the tomatoes into chunks. Set them aside for now.
In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté until they turn translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the red pepper flakes, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to wake up those spices.
Now, it's time to add the prepared tomatoes, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help meld the flavors.
After simmering, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. It's ready to serve once it's reached your desired taste balance.
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