Description
If you’ve ever wanted to capture the taste of summer in a pot, this homemade stewed tomatoes recipe is the answer. Fresh tomatoes are simmered with onions, garlic, celery, and herbs until tender and bursting with flavor. A touch of sugar balances the natural acidity, creating a rich, comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as the base for countless meals. Whether you serve it over rice, alongside cornbread, or as a hearty side dish, this recipe is a must-have in your kitchen. Best of all, it’s simple, budget-friendly, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 to 10 ripe tomatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk (or 1 bell pepper), diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch and peel tomatoes, then chop into chunks.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot, then sauté onion, garlic, and celery until softened.
- Add tomatoes, breaking them down with a spoon.
- Stir in sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Notes
- Use Roma or plum tomatoes for the best texture.
- Fresh herbs should be added at the end for maximum flavor.
- For a richer dish, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg