Stewed Tomatoes

Vegetarian Stewed Tomatoes Recipe with Basil and Celery

| Servings: - 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Stewed tomatoes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed as a side dish or used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of onions and celery with the tanginess of canned tomatoes to create a flavorful and versatile dish.

History

Stewed tomatoes have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early colonial period. Originally made with fresh tomatoes, this recipe evolved over time to include canned tomatoes for convenience and consistency.

Ingredients

0.25 to 0.5 sweet onion, peeled and chopped
1 or 2 tbsp scraped and chopped celery (optional)
1 or 2 tbsp butter
1 - 14.5 oz (411 g) can diced tomatoes
0.33 cup tomato juice or water
0.25 cup sugar, dark brown sugar, or splenda (to taste)
2 tbsp corn starch
0.5 tsp dried basil, crushed (optional)
0.5 tsp salt, to taste (if needed)

How to prepare

Prepare the onion and celery (see note below).
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan.
Sauté the onion and celery over medium heat until the onion is somewhat translucent. Do NOT brown.
Place the tomatoes in a small boiler.
Add the onion and celery mixture. Add sugar or Splenda.
Bring the tomatoes to a boil and cook over medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes.
Place the cornstarch in a cup. Stir water or tomato juice into the cup, dissolving any lumps.
When the tomatoes have cooked, add the cornstarch mixture to them and quickly stir it in well, cooking until you have a glossy sauce and it has thickened.
Add the basil, stirring it in well. Adjust the seasoning and add salt if needed.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor.
Stir in cooked beans or lentils for a protein boost.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to brown the onions and celery when sautéing them, as this can affect the overall flavor of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of sugar or Splenda to suit your taste preferences.

- Adding cornstarch to the tomatoes helps to thicken the sauce and create a glossy finish.

- Taste the stewed tomatoes before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stewed tomatoes as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

- Use as a base for homemade pasta sauce or chili.

- Enjoy over rice or quinoa for a simple and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onions and celery before adding the tomatoes helps to develop their flavors and create a rich base for the dish.

- Thickening the sauce with cornstarch creates a smooth and glossy finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh tomatoes in place of canned for a more rustic and fresh flavor.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free option.

- Use honey or maple syrup in place of Splenda for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

Stewed tomatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. - Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. - Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tangy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair stewed tomatoes with grilled steak or pork chops for a hearty meal.

- Serve alongside crusty bread and a green salad for a light and satisfying lunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover stewed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

100

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 14g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

Proteins

- Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter)

Summary

This recipe is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful side dish.

Summary

Stewed tomatoes are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of onions and celery with the tanginess of canned tomatoes to create a comforting and satisfying side dish. With a few basic ingredients and easy cooking techniques, you can whip up a batch of stewed tomatoes to enjoy with your favorite meals.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for stewed tomatoes. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother tend to the garden. As we were picking the ripe red tomatoes, she told me about a recipe that her own grandmother had passed down to her. It was a simple yet delicious dish that highlighted the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

My mother guided me through the process of making the stewed tomatoes, showing me how to blanch and peel the tomatoes before gently simmering them with onions, garlic, and a handful of fresh herbs. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to my childhood, sitting at my grandmother's kitchen table as she served me a steaming bowl of stewed tomatoes. The flavors were rich and comforting, the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It was a dish that spoke to me of family and tradition, of love and care put into every bite.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was handed down to me. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the love and connection that food can bring to our lives.

I learned the recipe for stewed tomatoes not just from my mother, but from a variety of sources. My grandmother's recipe was just the beginning. I have gathered tips and techniques from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I met at the market. Each person had their own unique twist on the dish, and I have incorporated these variations into my own version of the recipe.

One particularly memorable encounter was with an elderly Italian woman who I met at a cooking class. She shared with me her secret ingredient for the perfect stewed tomatoes – a splash of red wine vinegar. This simple addition added a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before, and I knew that I had to incorporate it into my own recipe.

Another source of inspiration for my stewed tomatoes recipe was a cookbook that I found at a thrift store. The yellowed pages were filled with handwritten notes and annotations, a testament to the love and care that the previous owner had put into their cooking. As I flipped through the pages, I discovered a recipe for stewed tomatoes that called for a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. I tried it out, and it was a game-changer.

Through these various encounters and experiences, I have honed my recipe for stewed tomatoes into a dish that is truly my own. It is a dish that speaks to my heritage, my experiences, and my love of cooking. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the connections that food can forge between us – the stories we share, the memories we create, and the love we pass down through generations.