Oven dried tomatoes

Oven-dried tomatoes are a delicious way to preserve tomatoes and enhance their flavor. Here’s how you can make them at home:

Ingredients:

• Ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum tomatoes work best)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Optional: herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). A lower temperature will help dry the tomatoes without cooking them too quickly.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Wash the tomatoes thoroughly.
   • Slice them in half lengthwise. If the tomatoes are larger, you can cut them into quarters.
   • Remove the seeds if you prefer a less watery result, but this step is optional.
3. Season the Tomatoes:
   • Place the tomato halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
   • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tomatoes.
   • Sprinkle lightly with salt and any herbs you choose to use.
4. Dry the Tomatoes:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
   • Dry the tomatoes for 6-12 hours, depending on their size and moisture content. Check them periodically to ensure they do not over-dry. The tomatoes should be shriveled but still slightly pliable, not crispy.
   • Rotate the baking sheet occasionally for even drying.
5. Cool and Store:
   • Once the tomatoes are dried to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
   • Store the oven-dried tomatoes in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a short period or refrigerated for longer storage. For extended preservation, you can store them in olive oil in the refrigerator.

Tips:

• Uniform Slicing: Try to slice the tomatoes uniformly to ensure even drying.
• Low and Slow: Drying tomatoes at a low temperature helps preserve their flavor and prevents them from burning.
• Watch Closely: The drying time can vary significantly based on tomato size and oven consistency, so check on them regularly.

Uses for Oven-Dried Tomatoes:

• Salads: Add them to salads for a burst of concentrated tomato flavor.
• Pasta: Toss them with pasta, olive oil, and garlic for a simple yet delicious dish.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Use them to add depth to sandwiches and wraps.
• Snacks: Enjoy them as a savory snack on their own or with cheese and crackers.
• Pizza Topping: They make a great addition to homemade pizzas.

By making oven-dried tomatoes, you can enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes all year round.