How to Make Fresh Stewed Tomatoes
Stewed tomatoes are a delightful and versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish. Whether you’re making a hearty soup, a delicious sauce, or a comforting stew, fresh stewed tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor that brings out the best in your culinary creations. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making fresh stewed tomatoes, ensuring that you have a flavorful and aromatic base for your next meal.
Ingredients
To make fresh stewed tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
– 8 ripe tomatoes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by washing the tomatoes thoroughly and removing the stems. Cut the tomatoes into wedges or small chunks, depending on your preference.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute, ensuring that the garlic does not burn.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the tomatoes simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The tomatoes will release their juices and start to break down, creating a rich and aromatic stew.
6. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can simmer it for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it.
7. Once the stewed tomatoes have reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from heat. If you wish, you can add a few fresh basil leaves for garnish before serving.
Enjoy Your Fresh Stewed Tomatoes
Congratulations! You have successfully made fresh stewed tomatoes. This flavorful ingredient can be used in a variety of recipes, such as marinara sauce, tomato soup, or as a topping for pizza. Enjoy your homemade stewed tomatoes and the delicious dishes they bring to your table.
