Nan's Knockout Stewed Tomatoes
Nan S Knockout Stewed Tomatoes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Nan's Knockout Stewed Tomatoes Recipe : A Simple, Savory Classic
Ever find yourself craving something proper comforting? Like a warm hug in a bowl? My nan's stewed tomatoes recipe is exactly that. It's savory, slightly sweet, and just screams "home."
A Taste of Home
This stewed tomato recipe isn't just any old recipe. it's a classic, passed down through generations, offering that warm, fuzzy feeling.
It's a simple recipe, born from using up end-of-season tomatoes. it's rated easy to make and will only take around 45 minutes.
This recipe makes about 4 servings. perfect for a quick family dinner or a comforting lunch.
Why You'll Love This Stewed Tomatoes Recipe
Honestly, these stewed tomatoes are more than just a side dish. they're packed with vitamin c and antioxidants. plus, they are perfect on a chilly evening or served over some crusty bread.
What makes it special? it's the simple ingredients, slow simmer, and that secret touch of sugar that balances the acidity.
Oh, and that sprinkle of fresh basil at the end? magic!
Simple Ingredients for Simply the Best
Ready to get started? here's what you'll need: 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth, salt, pepper, and fresh basil for garnish.
Now, let's get cooking!
Stewed Tomatoes Canning Recipe
Did you know many people enjoy the tradition of canning stewed tomatoes to extend that fresh taste all year round? while this recipe focuses on a fresh batch, similar methods can apply when seeking to preserve the summer harvest.
Just make sure to follow the proper safety procedures for home canning, like open kettle canning tomatoes . remember: safety first.
It's a great way to ensure you have homemade stewed tomatoes whenever you want!
Nan's Knockout Stewed Tomatoes Recipe : Ingredients & Equipment
Right, so you fancy whipping up some proper stewed tomatoes, eh? brilliant! let’s get down to brass tacks and see what we need.
Honestly, it's easier than making a cuppa. and you'll be able to try some stewed tomatoes canning recipe .
Main Ingredients
Here's what you need to create the best Southern Stewed Tomatoes Recipe :
- 2 lbs (900g) ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped. Honestly, Roma or plum tomatoes are your best bet. They've got that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil. Good quality stuff matters, it adds so much flavour.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano.
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) dried basil.
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick).
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) tomato paste.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) granulated sugar. This cuts through the acidity of the tomatoes like you wouldn't believe!
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth. Veggie for a Stewed Tomatoes with Bread recipe, chicken for extra depth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Those tomatoes, mind you, should be ripe and juicy. a bit squishy is fine, honestly. think about what you'd use for a stewed tomatoes canning recipe .
A good tomato is naturally sweet, and smells amazing, like summer in a vegetable.
Seasoning Notes: Making Magic Happen
Let's talk about the flavour builders. These Stewed Tomato Recipes need a little something something.
Oregano and basil are your classic combo. They bring that earthy, warm note that's just chef's kiss . Red pepper flakes? Totally optional, but I love a bit of heat.
Garlic is essential. but don't you dare burn it! that's a cardinal sin, it ruins the dish!. fry it gently till its fragrant.
Then use your open kettle canning tomatoes and let them simmer!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Now, you don't need a fancy kitchen for the best Easy Stewed Tomatoes Recipe . Let's keep it simple.
- Large pot or Dutch oven. A heavy bottom is crucial to prevent burning.
- Cutting board and chef's knife. Obviously.
- Measuring spoons and cups.
- Wooden spoon or spatula.
Honestly, that's it. if you don't have a dutch oven, any large pot will do. just keep an eye on it, and don't let it stick.
Or use a stewed tomatoes and okra recipe, that may work better with your ingredients.
Right, now you’ve got the kit, you’re ready to rumble with an Old Fashioned Stewed Tomatoes Recipe . Let's get cooking!
Nan's Knockout Stewed Tomatoes: A Simple, Savory Classic
Honestly, nothing beats a comforting bowl of stewed tomatoes on a chilly evening. it's like a warm hug from the inside, you know? this stewed tomatoes recipe is inspired by my nan's classic, but with a few cheeky twists.
We're talking sweet, tangy goodness, perfect for dipping crusty bread or spooning over pasta. it's proper lush. think of it as amped up heinz tomato soup.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first, let's get our ducks in a row. it's all about mise en place , which basically means "everything in its place".
Chop 2 lbs (900g) of ripe tomatoes . roma or plum tomatoes are brilliant for this. then, finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic .
Get your 1 tsp dried oregano , 0.5 tsp dried basil , and 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes ready too.
It's saves so much time.
A little tip? If you're prone to tears while chopping onions, try chilling them for 15 minutes beforehand. Works like a charm!
Step-by-Step: Simmering Your Way to Success
Right, let's get cooking!
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons (30ml) of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes , until softened. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch the garlic like a hawk – burnt garlic is the worst.
- Spice It Up: Stir in 1 tablespoon (15ml) of tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly. This toasting step really brings out the flavors.
- Tomato Time: Add the chopped tomatoes, 1 tsp (5ml) granulated sugar, and 0.5 cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer & Dream: Cover the pot and simmer for 20- 25 minutes , or until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly. This is where the magic happens.
- Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in some fresh basil leaves (if you're feeling fancy). Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. It's your easy stewed tomatoes recipe now, after all!
Pro Tips for Stewed Tomato Perfection
Want to take your southern stewed tomatoes recipe to the next level? Here are a few tricks:
- Low and Slow: Don't rush the simmering process. Low and slow is the key to developing rich flavors.
- Tomato Quality Matters: Use the best tomatoes you can find! Ripe, in-season tomatoes are always best. If not in season, canned San Marzano tomatoes are a great shout.
- The Sugar Secret: Don't skip the sugar. A little sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making them taste less sour. If you are feeling creative, try looking up stewed tomatoes canning recipe , to see how this principle is applied to a variety of preservation techniques, from the basics of canning stewed tomatoes , to learning about open kettle canning tomatoes .
Honestly, this old fashioned stewed tomatoes recipe is a real crowd pleaser. whether you’re serving it over pasta, with grilled cheese, or just on its own with some crusty bread, it's guaranteed to be a hit.
So, get in the kitchen and give it a go! you won't regret it.
Recipe Notes for the Best Stewed Tomatoes
Right then, you've got the recipe for nan's knockout stewed tomatoes recipe . now, a few extra bits and bobs to make sure yours are spot on.
Honestly, it's dead easy, but these tips will elevate your easy stewed tomatoes recipe to a whole new level.
Serving 'Em Up Right
Presentation matters, yeah? a rustic bowl is perfect for that comforting, homely feel. a swirl of cream on top? go on, treat yourself.
Fresh basil, finely chopped, scattered over just before serving adds a lovely pop of colour and flavour. as for what to serve them with? i love them with a grilled cheese sandwich for dipping, or spooned over pasta.
Mashed potatoes would be absolute heaven too. maybe a nice hunk of crusty bread? don't forget a simple salad on the side or perhaps some stewed tomatoes with bread .
Storing and Saving for Later
Got leftovers? no worries. let the homemade stewed tomatoes cool completely. then, pop them in an airtight container. they'll happily keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freezing is your best bet. use freezer safe containers or bags. they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, or gently warm them on the hob. make sure they're piping hot before serving.
Remember, food safety first! when considering a stewed tomatoes canning recipe , you need to be very careful about the process.
Mix It Up: Variations on a Theme
Fancy a change? here are a couple of ideas. for a veggie version, make sure you're using vegetable broth. easy peasy! if you want to spice things up, add a pinch more red pepper flakes.
A dash of smoked paprika works wonders too. if tomatoes are not in season, feel free to use a canned tomatoes recipe with some lovely san marzano plum tomatoes in their juice.
The Goodness Inside
So, a serving of this stewed tomatoes recipe has roughly 120 calories, 3g protein, 7g fat, 13g carbs, 3g fiber, and 7g sugar.
I know, right? tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a brilliant antioxidant. honestly, they are great for you! think of it as a delicious way to get your vitamins.
So there you have it! i hope you make this classic dish your own. a hearty bowl of old fashioned stewed tomatoes recipe is a hug in a bowl! now go on, get cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make this stewed tomatoes recipe even more flavourful, like Nanny used to make?
The secret to unlocking that deep, nostalgic flavour is all in the tomatoes and the slow simmer. Use the best quality ripe tomatoes you can find, or even canned San Marzano tomatoes for an extra kick.
Don't rush the simmering process; letting the stewed tomatoes bubble away gently allows the flavours to meld together beautifully, just like Nanny's secret ingredient: time!
Can I use this stewed tomatoes recipe as a base for other dishes, or is it best served on its own?
Absolutely! Think of these stewed tomatoes as your secret weapon in the kitchen. They're fantastic on their own, served with a hunk of crusty bread for dipping. But they also shine as a base for pasta sauces, chili, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Get creative the possibilities are endless!
How long will these stewed tomatoes last in the fridge, and can I freeze them for later?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your stewed tomatoes will happily keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a brilliant option. Allow the tomatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to freezer safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion.
They'll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or gently heat on the stovetop.
I'm watching my sugar intake. Can I reduce or eliminate the sugar in this stewed tomatoes recipe?
Yes, you can definitely adjust the sugar to your liking! The sugar is primarily there to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Start by halving the amount of sugar in the recipe and tasting. If it's still too tart, add a little more until you reach your desired sweetness.
You could also use a natural sweetener like a touch of honey or maple syrup, but remember these will alter the flavour slightly. Some folks find a pinch of baking soda also works wonders to reduce acidity, but add it sparingly!
What if I don't have fresh tomatoes? Can I still make this stewed tomatoes recipe with canned?
Absolutely, using canned tomatoes is a perfectly acceptable, and sometimes even preferable, alternative, especially out of tomato season. Opt for good quality canned whole peeled tomatoes, ideally San Marzano if you can find them. Simply crush them with your hands before adding them to the pot.
You might need to adjust the simmering time slightly, as canned tomatoes can sometimes be a bit softer than fresh.
Can I make this stewed tomatoes recipe vegan, and are there any other healthy additions I could make?
Making this recipe vegan is a piece of cake! Just ensure you're using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For healthy additions, consider adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
This will boost the nutritional content and add extra flavour and texture. A handful of chopped kale is another brilliant shout, adding extra vitamins and that 'good for you' feeling!
