Dried tomatoes for winter

The winter taste indulgence: oven-dried tomatoes

When it comes to dishes that can transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience, oven-dried tomatoes are an excellent choice. These delicacies, rich in concentrated flavors, not only add a splash of color and taste to your dishes but also serve as a wonderful way to preserve the taste of summer during the colder months. In this recipe, I will show you step by step how to prepare oven-dried tomatoes using simple ingredients and accessible techniques.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3-4 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on how many tomatoes you use, but generally, a standard recipe will yield about 2-3 jars, each containing a few servings.

Ingredients you need:
- 1 kg ripe and firm tomatoes (preferably the size of an apricot)
- Salt (go by instinct, but about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Herbs (you can use herbs de Provence, rosemary, or oregano)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil (enough to cover the tomatoes)

A brief history of dried tomatoes:
Dried tomatoes have been used for centuries as a method of preserving fresh tomatoes, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of various cultures. This technique not only helps extend the shelf life of tomatoes but also intensifies their flavors, transforming them into a versatile delicacy. Whether you use them in salads, pasta, sauces, or on a slice of toasted bread, dried tomatoes are an ingredient that enriches any dish.

Step by step: How to prepare oven-dried tomatoes

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Carefully select the tomatoes - they should be ripe but firm, without spots or blemishes. A quality tomato is key to a delicious result. Wash them well and dry them with a clean towel. Cut each tomato in half and remove the stem. If the tomatoes are larger, you can cut them into quarters.

2. Seasoning: Place the tomato halves on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure they do not overlap. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and herbs on top. Use a generous amount of seasonings, as they will enhance the flavor of the tomatoes during drying. If you like garlic, slice the cloves thinly and place them between the tomatoes.

3. Drying in the oven: Preheat the oven to 90-100°C. Place the tray on the top rack of the oven and let the tomatoes dry for 3-4 hours. Check them periodically; they should become dry but not completely crispy. The ideal texture is soft but not wet, and the color should become more intense.

4. Preserving the tomatoes: After the tomatoes have dried, let them cool completely. Place them in a sterilized jar, pressing them down gently. Add the garlic slices between them, then pour extra virgin olive oil until all the tomatoes are completely covered. This oil will absorb the flavors, becoming a delicious ingredient in your future dishes.

5. Storing: Put the lid on the jar and keep it in the refrigerator. Dried tomatoes can be stored for a few months, but I recommend using them as soon as possible to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Serving and usage suggestions:
Dried tomatoes can be used in numerous dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Add them to salads for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use them in pasta with tomato sauce or pesto.
- Spread them on toasted bread with goat cheese or ricotta.
- You can use them in pizza or tartines.
- Combined with olives and feta cheese, they can create a delicious appetizer platter.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different combinations of herbs to find the flavor you like best. For example, mint adds an interesting note.
- The oil in which the tomatoes are preserved can be used later for cooking or as a salad dressing.
- If you want a spicier variant, you can add chili flakes to the olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cherry tomatoes? Yes, but the drying time will be shorter.
- How can I tell if the tomatoes are completely dried? The tomatoes should be firm and slightly elastic to the touch.
- Is it necessary to store them in the refrigerator? Yes, to prevent fermentation.

Dried tomatoes are a simple recipe but have a huge impact on your dishes. Easy to make and so versatile, these delicacies will help you enrich your winter recipes. So, don’t wait any longer! Start preparing your winter supplies and enjoy the taste of summer even on the coldest days.