Grandma'S Sweet Stewed Tomatoes(Pennsylvania Dutch))
A comforting Pennsylvania Dutch dish featuring sweet, stewed tomatoes with a hint of brown sugar and onion, perfect as a side or light meal for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in Crisco oil until translucent.
- Add flour and cook lightly to form a roux.
- Add chopped tomatoes and brown sugar, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can increase the flour slightly or let the tomatoes simmer longer. For a twist, try using canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for a spicy kick. This dish is a classic among American recipes, so feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Sweet Stewed Tomatoes as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Punch Cake for dessert, creating a comforting meal. For a full Pennsylvania Dutch experience, consider serving them with baked ham or a hearty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stewed tomatoes on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Sweet Stewed Tomatoes(Pennsylvania Dutch)) contains roughly 131 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you'll need about 2 cups, peeled and chopped. Cook them down until they release their juices, then proceed with the recipe. Fresh tomatoes will give a brighter flavor and can be a great alternative during tomato season.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting Crisco oil for any plant-based oil. Ensure that the brown sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands may use bone char in processing. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic dish.
What can I do if my tomatoes are too acidic?
If you find the tomatoes too acidic after cooking, you can balance the flavor by adding a pinch of baking soda, which neutralizes acidity. Alternatively, you might add a little more brown sugar to sweeten the dish, helping to round out the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).