Spicy Tomatoes
Spicy Tomatoes Recipe - Vegetarian Dish with Chile, Lime Juice, and Cayenne Pepper
Introduction
Spicy tomatoes, also known as sambal, is a flavorful and fiery condiment that adds a kick to any dish. This recipe combines the heat of chili peppers with the tanginess of tomatoes and lime juice for a delicious and versatile sauce.
History
Sambal is a traditional Indonesian condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically made with a variety of chili peppers, along with other ingredients such as tomatoes, shallots, and soy sauce. Sambal is often used as a dipping sauce or added to dishes to give them an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 small green or red hot chili peppers, seeded and minced
- 1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped (about 0.5 cup)
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 medium shallots, minced (about 0.33 cup)
- 2 tsp soy sauce
How to prepare
- Place all the ingredients in a medium bowl and mix them well.
- Allow the mixture to stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- The sambal can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
- Add a splash of fish sauce for a savory umami flavor.
- Mix in some chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herbal note.
- Blend in a ripe avocado for a creamy texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to wear gloves when handling chili peppers to avoid getting the oils on your skin, which can cause irritation.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before mincing them.
- Store the sambal in a glass container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy tomatoes can be served as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. They can also be used as a topping for tacos, burgers, or salads.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe requires minimal cooking, as the ingredients are simply mixed together in a bowl. The flavors will develop as the sambal sits, so be sure to allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh chili peppers, you can use dried chili flakes or hot sauce as a substitute. You can also use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Spicy tomatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so it may even taste better the next day.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the spicy tomatoes in a small bowl with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a lime wedge for garnish. You can also drizzle it over a dish in a decorative pattern for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Spicy tomatoes pair well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. They also complement dishes with bold flavors, such as curries, stir-fries, or tacos.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover spicy tomatoes in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of spicy tomatoes contains approximately 30 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of spicy tomatoes contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
There is minimal fat content in this recipe, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.
Proteins
This dish provides about 1 gram of protein per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
Spicy tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the tomatoes and lime juice. They also contain small amounts of vitamin A and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy sauce, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Summary
Spicy tomatoes are a low-calorie condiment that adds flavor to dishes without adding excess calories or fat. They are also a good source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients.
Summary
Spicy tomatoes are a versatile condiment that adds a fiery kick to any dish. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a flavorful sauce that will elevate your meals. Enjoy the heat and tanginess of sambal with this easy and delicious recipe.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I could smell the delicious aroma of tomatoes simmering on the stove. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a glass of homemade lemonade.
"Sit down, dear," she said, motioning towards a chair at the kitchen table. "I have something special to show you."
Curious, I sat down and watched as Maria pulled out a worn, tattered recipe book from her cupboard. She flipped through the pages until she found what she was looking for – a recipe for Spicy Tomatoes.
"This recipe has been in my family for generations," Maria explained. "It's a simple dish, but it's always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. I think you'll love it."
As Maria began to walk me through the steps of making Spicy Tomatoes, I couldn't help but feel a rush of nostalgia. It reminded me of my own grandmother, who taught me how to cook when I was just a young girl. I could still remember the way she would patiently guide me through each recipe, her hands moving gracefully as she mixed and stirred.
As Maria finished explaining the recipe, I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. I thanked her profusely and promised to make it for my own family soon. Little did I know, that simple dish would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.
The next day, I gathered the ingredients for Spicy Tomatoes and set to work in my own kitchen. As I chopped the fresh tomatoes and onions, I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step. I added the spices and let the mixture simmer on the stove, filling my home with the mouth-watering aroma of garlic and chili.
When the dish was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. I scooped a spoonful of the Spicy Tomatoes onto my plate and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – tangy, spicy, and oh so satisfying. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a favorite in my household.
Over the years, I have made Spicy Tomatoes countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add a bit more chili for an extra kick, or a dash of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. No matter how I make it, the dish always brings smiles to the faces of my loved ones.
I have shared the recipe for Spicy Tomatoes with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition that Maria started so many years ago. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the bond that food creates between people – the shared memories, the laughter, and the joy of coming together over a delicious meal.
As I sit in my kitchen now, preparing a batch of Spicy Tomatoes for a family gathering, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a piece of history passed down through generations. And as I serve the dish to my loved ones, I know that I am carrying on a tradition that will live on long after I am gone.
So here's to Spicy Tomatoes – a simple dish that has brought so much joy into my life. May it continue to warm the hearts and bellies of all who taste it, just as it has done for me. Cheers to good food, good friends, and the memories we create around the kitchen table.
Categories
| Chile Pepper Recipes | Sauce Recipes | Tomato Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |