Introduction
Ah, the enjoyment of harvesting tomatoes out of your backyard every summer time! Whether or not you’re a fan of the cherry selection like me or favor the strong Romas, there’s one thing extremely satisfying about plucking these pink jewels. However what to do when you might have a surplus? Positive, you need to use them in salads, sauces, and even freeze them for later. However have you ever ever thought of making your personal sun-dried tomatoes? Don’t fear; you don’t really want the solar for this. A dehydrator will just do positive, and it’s faster and easier!
Why Solar-Dried Tomatoes?
Solar-dried tomatoes will not be only a fad; they’re a culinary delight that has stood the take a look at of time. Their concentrated taste can elevate any dish, from pasta and stews to sandwiches and omelets. They’re extremely versatile and can be utilized in a myriad of the way:
- In Pasta: Attempt them in our Sicilian pasta salad or combined in our hen and asparagus pasta with pesto.
- In Breakfast: Add them to your omelets or scrambled eggs.
- As a Snack: Sure, they’re scrumptious straight from the container!
- In Sauces: Rehydrate them in boiling water and puree to make several types of sauces.
Selecting the Proper Tomatoes
For drying functions, Romas are often the go-to alternative. Nevertheless, you’re not restricted to only one kind. Listed here are another choices:
- Beefsteak: These are massive and juicy, wonderful for individuals who favor a meatier texture.
- Cherry: These tiny tomatoes are candy and ideal for snacking.
Keep in mind, at all times go for the firmest tomatoes. Mushy ones is not going to yield one of the best outcomes.
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepping the Tomatoes
- Wash the tomatoes completely to take away any dust or pesticides.
- Take away the stems and any blemished pores and skin.
- Reduce into ¼-inch slices or in half. Thicker slices will take longer to dry out.
Seasoning (Elective)
At this level, you’ll be able to sprinkle them with herbs for added taste. Some fashionable selections are:
- Oregano
- Basil
- Thyme
- Garlic powder
Drying Course of
- Organize the slices on the dehydrator trays.
- Set the dehydrator to 150°F.
- Dry them out for about 10 hours most, checking each hour or so after the primary 4 hours. They need to tackle a leathery texture.
Storage
Place your dried tomatoes in an air-tight container, and retailer them within the fridge or freezer. They need to final for six months to a yr with correct storage.
No Dehydrator? No Downside!
For those who don’t personal a dehydrator, you can too dry your tomatoes in a 150°F oven. Comply with the identical preparation steps and place the slices on baking sheets. It can take a couple of hours for them to realize the specified leathery texture.