Cozy nights are made for comfort food, and what’s more comforting than a warm, flavorful dish featuring the star of the show: tomatoes. When it comes to stewed tomatoes, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different variations that will elevate your mealtime game and satisfy your cravings.
From classic Italian recipes with garlic and basil to spicy Mexican-style options with jalapeños, slow-cooked stews with onions and thyme to Mediterranean-inspired dishes with olives and capers, there’s a stewed tomato recipe on this list for every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for something rich and tangy or sweet and smoky, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into each of these recipes in detail, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dishes turn out perfectly. So grab a blanket, put on your favorite movie, and get ready to cozy up with some delicious stewed tomatoes.
Classic Italian stewed tomatoes with garlic and basil
Classic Italian Stewed Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil: A Simple yet Flavorful Recipe
This recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, where fresh tomatoes are slowly cooked with garlic and basil to create a rich, aromatic sauce. Perfect for pasta dishes, bruschetta, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Mexican-style stewed tomatoes with jalapeños
Spicy Mexican-Style Stewed Tomatoes with Jalapeños
Summary: This recipe adds a bold twist to traditional stewed tomatoes by incorporating the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3-4 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the jalapeños and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the tomatoes have broken down.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-cooked stewed tomatoes with onions and thyme
This recipe yields a rich and flavorful tomato sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. With its deep, caramelized flavor and tender texture, this slow-cooked stew is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, thyme sprigs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Mediterranean stewed tomatoes with olives and capers
This hearty stewed tomato dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for serving as a side or using as a topping for bread or rice. The combination of sweet tomatoes, salty olives, and tangy capers creates a flavorful and aromatic sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or canned tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Add the tomatoes, capers, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich and tangy balsamic stewed tomatoes
Elevate your tomato game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for bruschetta, grilled meats, or pasta.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs fresh or canned whole tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the tomatoes have broken down slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Herbed stewed tomatoes with rosemary and oregano
This simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the perfect combination of fresh herbs and sweet tomatoes, making it a great addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this delightful side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped rosemary and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the dried oregano.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and smoky stewed tomatoes with paprika
This recipe adds a new dimension of flavor to traditional stewed tomatoes by incorporating smokiness from paprika and sweetness from a hint of sugar. Perfect as a topping for grilled meats, vegetables, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlicky stewed tomatoes with Parmesan crust
A classic combination of flavors gets a crunchy twist with this recipe. Sweet and tangy stewed tomatoes meet the savory richness of parmesan cheese, all in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or canned whole tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in olive oil and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Pour the tomato mixture into a baking dish and top with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stewed tomatoes with roasted red peppers
This hearty stewed tomato recipe adds a sweet and smoky twist with the addition of roasted red peppers. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for pasta, risotto, or sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, roasted red peppers, oregano, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer stew for 20-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Creamy coconut milk stewed tomatoes
This rich and creamy stewed tomato recipe adds a tropical twist with the addition of coconut milk, making it perfect for a comforting side dish or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Stewed tomatoes with caramelized onions
This classic recipe combines sweet caramelized onions with rich stewed tomatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a topping for crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup white wine (for added depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the onions and oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using white wine, add it to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Spicy harissa-infused stewed tomatoes
Spicy Harissa-Infused Stewed Tomatoes: A flavorful twist on traditional tomato sauce, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the spicy kick of harissa.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the harissa and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stewed tomatoes with white wine and shallots
This classic French-inspired dish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or served as a side on its own. The combination of tender tomatoes, sweet shallots, and rich white wine creates a rich and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4-5 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shallots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to caramelize.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the white wine and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic stewed tomatoes with fresh basil
This recipe showcases the simplicity of allowing ripe tomatoes to shine, accompanied by the brightness of fresh basil and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for serving alongside grilled meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the tomato halves, cut side up, in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss to coat evenly.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and stew for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices and start to break down.
6. Remove from the oven and stir in the chopped basil leaves. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stewed tomatoes with fennel and orange zest
This sweet and savory stewed tomato dish is perfect as a side or used as a topping for pasta, meatballs, or grilled meats. The addition of fennel and orange zest adds a bright and refreshing twist to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 bulb fennel, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced fennel and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, chicken broth, and white wine (if using).
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the orange zest and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Indian-inspired stewed tomatoes with curry leaves
Elevate your tomato game with this Indian-inspired recipe that infuses sweet and tangy tomatoes with the warmth of curry leaves. This flavorful stew is perfect for accompanying naan, rice, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2-3 curry leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, water, curry leaves, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stewed tomatoes with crispy pancetta
A classic Italian recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory, crispy goodness of pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 6 slices of pancetta, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Roll the pancetta slices into tight cylinders. Place them on top of the tomato mixture in a single layer.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the pancetta is crispy.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon-infused stewed tomatoes with fresh herbs
Brighten up your meals with this refreshing twist on classic stewed tomatoes! This recipe adds a burst of citrusy flavor and a pop of color from fresh herbs, perfect for topping pasta dishes, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with these 18 hearty stewed tomato recipes. From classic Italian flavors to spicy Mexican twists, there’s something for everyone. Slow-cook tomatoes with onions and thyme for a comforting meal, or add some Mediterranean flair with olives and capers. Try rich balsamic tomatoes, herby rosemary and oregano, or smoky paprika. Get creative with garlicky Parmesan crust, caramelized onions, or spicy harissa. Whether you’re in the mood for something rustic or exotic, these recipes will warm your heart and your belly.
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