Dried yellow tomatoes in walnut oil

Culinary Indulgence: Dried Yellow Tomatoes in Walnut Oil

If you are looking for a simple yet refined recipe that transforms yellow tomatoes into delicious flavors, you have come to the right place! Yellow tomatoes, with their unique pear shape, such as the 'Yellow Pearshaped' variety, not only look wonderful but also offer a distinctive taste. These little delights are perfect for preserving in walnut oil, creating a versatile ingredient for various dishes.

Total time: 5 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars

Ingredients you will need:
- 500 g yellow pear-shaped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 250 ml walnut oil

A brief story about yellow tomatoes:
Yellow tomatoes have been cultivated over time due to their sweet taste and attractive appearance. Unlike red tomatoes, they have a lower acidity, making them ideal for various culinary preparations, from salads to preserves. Walnut oil, rich in essential fatty acids, perfectly complements these tomatoes, giving them a distinct flavor and a velvety texture.

Preparing the tomatoes:
1. Selecting the tomatoes: Choose ripe yellow tomatoes without spots or imperfections. The fresher they are, the more intense the flavors will be.

2. Cutting the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes with cold water and dry them. Cut them in half or into three slices, ensuring they are all of similar size. This will ensure even drying.

3. Preparing for drying: Place the tomato slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle sea salt and dried basil over the tomatoes. Salt not only helps with preservation but also enhances the natural flavor of the tomatoes.

5. Drying in the oven: Preheat the oven to 70°C. It is important that the temperature is kept low for proper drying. Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. This step is essential to achieve crispy, not boiled, dried tomatoes. Leave them in the oven for 4-5 hours, checking occasionally. The tomatoes are ready when they are dried but still flexible.

Preserving the dried tomatoes:
1. Packing in jars: Carefully place the dried tomatoes in jars, alternating layers of tomatoes with walnut oil. Make sure each tomato is well covered with oil to prevent oxidation.

2. Sealing the jars: Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place. The tomatoes can be consumed after a few days, but the flavor will become even more intense as they sit in the oil.

Useful tips:
- Tomatoes can also be dried in the sun, but this process takes longer and requires more attention to avoid mold.
- Experiment with different combinations of spices, such as oregano or thyme, to discover new flavors.
- Walnut oil can be substituted with olive oil for a different flavor, but for a unique taste, don't hesitate to stick with walnut oil.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Yellow tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Walnut oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. A serving of dried tomatoes in walnut oil has approximately 150 calories, making them a healthy and delicious snack.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, but smaller tomatoes, such as cherry or pear-shaped ones, yield the best results due to their lower water content.

2. How long can I keep the tomatoes in oil?
If stored properly, the tomatoes can last up to 6 months. Make sure the oil completely covers them.

3. What can I pair these tomatoes with?
Dried tomatoes in walnut oil can be used in salads, pasta, pizza toppings, or even sandwiches. They also pair wonderfully with cheeses like feta or mozzarella.

4. Can I use lightly dried tomatoes?
Sure! Lightly dried tomatoes are excellent as an ingredient in various dishes, such as sauces or fillings.

Serving and variations:
To add a touch of elegance, you can serve dried tomatoes on a platter with cheeses and olives, accompanied by a fresh baguette. Another delicious option would be to use them in a savory tart, alongside ricotta and dill.

In conclusion, this recipe for dried yellow tomatoes in walnut oil is not only simple but also adds a touch of refinement to any meal. Whether you use them as an appetizer or a special ingredient in a main dish, your dried tomatoes will surely impress! So, don't wait too long and enjoy the flavor of these delights!