Sun-dried tomatoes preserved in olive oil on a bed of basil

Name: Sun-dried tomatoes preserved in olive oil on a bed of basil - Eliana O.
Ingredients: 6 kg organic tomatoes 100g fresh basil (stems and leaves) 1L olive oil

Conserve - Sun-dried tomatoes preserved in olive oil on a bed of basil by Eliana O. - Recipia

Sun-Dried Tomatoes Preserved in Olive Oil on a Basil Bed These sun-dried tomatoes are a delicacy that brings a touch of sunshine and flavor to every dish. Preserved in olive oil with fresh basil, they are perfect for enhancing sauces, roasts, pizzas, bruschetta, or any desired dish. Additionally, for those following a vegetarian or fasting diet, they are a healthy choice, full of taste and nutrients. Let's discover together how to prepare them step by step! Preparation Time: 20 minutes Drying Time: 4 days (depending on the weather) Total Time: 4 days and 20 minutes Number of Servings: 4 jars of 500 ml Ingredients: - 6 kg very ripe organic tomatoes - 100 g fresh basil (stems and leaves) - 1 L quality olive oil Necessary Utensils: - A drying rack or sieve - Cheesecloth or protective mesh - Sterilized jars with lids - A basket for collecting tomatoes Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes Start by washing the tomatoes well. Choose organic fruits, preferably from local sources, to achieve the best flavors. Slice them thinly, about 0.5 cm thick. This step is crucial; thinner slices will dry evenly and faster. Step 2: Drying the Tomatoes Spread the tomato slices on a sieve, ensuring they do not overlap. This allows for air circulation and helps with even drying. Cover them with cheesecloth or a denser mesh to protect them from insects and dust. If the weather is nice and sunny, your tomatoes will be ready in about four days. You can check the progress daily, and the aroma they emit will surely be tempting! Step 3: Preparing the Jars While the tomatoes are drying, it's time to take care of the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them. You can do this either by boiling for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher at a high temperature. Sterilization is essential to prevent bacterial growth. Step 4: Assembling the Ingredients Once the tomatoes are dried, place them in a basket. It's time to bring the flavors together! Wash the fresh basil and ensure it is dry before use. Now, get ready to fill the jars: 1. Place a layer of basil at the bottom of each jar. 2. Add a layer of dried tomato slices. 3. Continue alternating basil and tomatoes until the jar is nearly full. 4. Finally, top with olive oil, ensuring all ingredients are completely covered. The oil will absorb the flavors and provide a delicious taste to your dishes. Step 5: Sealing and Storing After filling the jars, screw the lid on tightly. Label them with the date and contents, then store them in the pantry. These preserved tomatoes can last for up to four months. After opening the jar, keep it in the fridge and consume within a month. Practical Tips: 1. Choosing Tomatoes: Use only very ripe tomatoes to achieve an intense and sweet flavor. Tomatoes of different colors can add an interesting visual aspect. 2. Olive Oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the final flavor of the dish. 3. Spiced Variation: You can also add other herbs like oregano or thyme to diversify the flavors. 4. Using Flavored Oil: The oil left after consuming the tomatoes is ideal for salad dressings or cooking vegetables, having a rich flavor. Nutritional Benefits: Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. Preserving them in olive oil helps maintain these nutrients and additionally provides healthy fatty acids beneficial for the heart. Frequently Asked Questions: - Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can try with peppers or zucchini, but the drying time may vary. - How do I know if the tomatoes are dried correctly? The slices should be flexible but not wet. If they remain wet, the risk of mold increases. - Can I consume them without oil? It is recommended to keep them in oil for better preservation, but you can use dried tomatoes in various dishes without preserving them. Serving and Combinations: These sun-dried tomatoes are wonderful on bruschetta with goat cheese, added to pasta with tomato sauce, or in Mediterranean salads. They also pair well with a dry red wine or a sangria-style appetizer. Enjoy this simple and delicious recipe that will bring a touch of summer to every meal and make you feel like a true chef! Bon appétit!

Sun-dried tomatoes preserved in olive oil on a bed of basil

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