Canned diced tomatoes are a pantry staple, offering convenience and a burst of summer flavor year-round. But sometimes, you want more than just a simple addition to your chili or sauce. This guide will show you how to transform humble canned diced tomatoes into a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile stewed tomato dish. Perfect as a side, a sauce base, or even a light meal on its own!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Here's a basic starting point:
- 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes: Undrained is best for extra flavor and texture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works great.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Or your preferred cooking oil.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic pairing with tomatoes.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil: Another wonderful complement.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a bay leaf for richness, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for complexity. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also elevate the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
2. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors will meld and deepen. For a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
4. Taste and adjust: After 20 minutes (or longer), taste the stewed tomatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, sugar, or herbs to achieve your desired flavor profile.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious stewed tomatoes warm as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables. They're also wonderful spooned over pasta, rice, or polenta. You can even use them as a base for a hearty soup or a flavorful pizza sauce.
Tips for the Best Stewed Tomatoes:
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the stew. Look for brands with minimal added ingredients.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Try different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor combinations.
- Make it ahead: Stewed tomatoes taste even better the next day, making them a great make-ahead dish.
- Freeze for later: Stewed tomatoes freeze well, allowing you to enjoy the flavor of summer all year round.
Beyond the Basics: Variations on Stewed Tomatoes
- Spicy Stewed Tomatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for a kick.
- Herby Stewed Tomatoes: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Sweet and Savory Stewed Tomatoes: Add a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup for a sweeter profile.
- Tomato and Sausage Stew: Brown Italian sausage before adding the onions and garlic for a heartier meal.
With a little creativity, canned diced tomatoes can become the star of a delicious and versatile dish. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your perfect stewed tomato recipe!
