Tomato stew

Tomato Stew - A Flavorful Delight from Grandma's Garden

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love the inviting aroma of ripe tomatoes, combined with the delicate taste of onions and a hint of garlic? Tomato stew is a simple and delicious recipe that brings together fresh, natural ingredients, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner. It’s a true feast for the senses, a dish that evokes warm summer days when tomatoes are in peak season.

The history of this dish is closely tied to the culinary traditions of many cultures, where tomatoes are the undisputed stars of summer. Over time, tomato stew has been a beloved dish for families, often prepared for Sunday meals or special occasions. This recipe can be adapted and personalized, giving you the chance to play with flavors and ingredients just the way you like!

Ingredients

1 kg ripe tomatoes (choose thin-skinned tomatoes for a smooth texture)
1 large onion (preferably white or yellow for sweetness)
2 garlic cloves (for a more intense flavor, you can add 1-2 extra cloves)
3 roasted bell peppers (you can use fresh peppers, but roasted ones add a smoky note)
1 bunch of fresh dill (you can also experiment with parsley or basil)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (choose extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors)

Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion. Make sure to pay attention to the size of the pieces so that it sautés evenly. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can let it sauté longer until it turns golden.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a deep skillet or pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The sautéing should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Adding the tomatoes and peppers: While the onion is sautéing, chop the tomatoes into small cubes, making sure to remove the stem. Add them to the skillet along with the sliced roasted peppers. If you don’t have roasted peppers, you can quickly roast fresh ones in a grill pan or oven for a few minutes.

4. Seasoning: Add the chopped garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix everything to combine the flavors. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes. If you prefer to use the oven, transfer the contents to a baking dish and let it bake at 180°C.

5. Finalizing the dish: When the tomatoes have softened and started to break down, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Finally, add the chopped fresh dill and mix well.

6. Serving: Tomato stew can be served warm or cold. It’s delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or as a side dish for meat. A personal suggestion would be to serve it with a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy contrast.

Useful tips

- Choosing tomatoes: Buy seasonal tomatoes, which are more flavorful and juicy. Romanian tomatoes, for example, are known for their sweet taste.
- Peppers: If you don’t have roasted peppers, you can sauté them a bit in the pan, but the smoky flavor obtained from roasting is unmistakable.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to create a heartier stew. Additionally, you can add spices like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Pairings: This stew pairs wonderfully with feta cheese or a few slices of smoked sausage. You can serve it alongside a dry white wine, which will highlight the flavors of the tomatoes and peppers.

Nutritional benefits

Tomato stew is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which is associated with reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Garlic and dill add extra nutrients and antimicrobial properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, but make sure to choose tomatoes without additives. Canned tomatoes are a good alternative, especially in winter.

2. How can I store the tomato stew?
You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It’s even tastier the next day when the flavors have intensified.

3. Is the tomato stew vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan, perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

4. Can I add meat?
Sure! You can add diced chicken or pork, sautéed along with the onion, for a heartier dish.

Tomato stew is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish, full of flavors and aromas. So, embrace the taste of summer even on cooler days, and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!