Stewed Tomatoes
Stewed Tomatoes is a comforting dish featuring tender tomatoes infused with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice. Enhanced with a touch of sugar and a hint of bread, it offers a sweet and savory flavor profile. Perfect as a side or a light meal, suitable for all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except butter, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes.
- Break up the tomatoes with a spoon.
- Stir occasionally.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in water and add to the saucepan.
- Let the mixture thicken.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you're out of bread, crushed crackers can be a good substitute to help thicken the stew. Adjust the sugar based on the acidity of the tomatoes; you might need less if using sweeter varieties. This recipe is versatile and can be customized with ingredients from various American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Stewed tomatoes can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or over rice for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with the flavors of Black Forest Bread, making for a comforting combination. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a fresh salad or incorporate them into pasta dishes for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stewed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stewed Tomatoes contains roughly 423 calories, with 5g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Approximately 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes will yield a similar result. Blanch and peel them first, then chop and proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to reach the desired consistency.
What can I do if the mixture is too thick?
If your stewed tomatoes are too thick, simply add a bit of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat gently to combine the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if needed, as additional liquid may dilute the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your stewed tomatoes, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking. You can also add diced jalapeños or other hot peppers for a fresher spice. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
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).