Are you overwhelmed with an abundance of tomatoes from your garden? If you're tired of making the same old salsa, spaghetti sauce, and marinara, why not try something different? Smoked tomatoes are a perfect way to preserve and enhance the flavor of your tomatoes. In this article, we will guide you on how to smoke dried tomatoes and share some tips on how to enjoy them.
How to Smoke Dried Tomatoes
To smoke dried tomatoes, you will need the following:
- Roma tomatoes - peeled or unpeeled and sliced 1/8 of an inch thick
- A dehydrator - any cheap one will do
- An electric smoker
Start by slicing the tomatoes and placing them in the smoker. You can use any type of wood chips for smoking. Smoke the tomatoes for about 2 hours, but you can adjust the smoking time according to your preference. Keep in mind that smoking them for too long can result in an intense smoky flavor that may overpower the taste of the tomatoes.
Once the tomatoes are smoked, remove them from the smoker and transfer them to the dehydrator. Follow the instructions of your dehydrator for the recommended drying time. Typically, it takes around 10-12 hours to fully dehydrate the tomatoes. If your dehydrator does not have a thermostat, make sure to rotate the trays from top to bottom every hour or so for even drying.
Now, you have a batch of delicious smoke-dried tomatoes ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Enjoying Smoke-dried Tomatoes
Smoke-dried tomatoes are like intensely flavored bits of sunshine. They can elevate any recipe that calls for sun-dried tomatoes. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy them:
- Eat them as a snack or trail food.
- Marinate them in high-quality unfiltered organic extra virgin olive oil. The oil will absorb the smoky tomato flavor and can be used to dress pasta, sauté vegetables, or in dressings.
- Store the smoke-dried tomatoes in the refrigerator, tightly sealed in a jar, to prevent dehydration. They can also be frozen for up to one year.
- To use the smoke-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in hot water or hot olive oil for a few minutes. Chop them into small pieces or use a food processor to distribute the flavors throughout a dish.
- Add the smoke-dried tomatoes to sautéed vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and mushrooms, for a flavorful side dish.
- Incorporate them into bean dishes or chilies for added depth of flavor.
- Use them as a bacon substitute in quiches or scrambled eggs for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Create a smoke-dried tomato pesto by blending the tomatoes with olive oil, nuts, and cheese. You can also add seasonal herbs like basil, spinach, cilantro, or sorrel.
- Get creative with cheese treats by blending soft cheese with minced smoke-dried tomatoes and spreading the mixture on jalapenos, crackers, or toast. You can also mix the cheese with the smoke-dried tomato pesto and toss it with hot pasta.
Smoke-dried tomatoes make excellent gifts for friends and family. They are cost-effective, easy to make, and incredibly delicious. Give them a try and discover a new level of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
While Roma tomatoes are recommended for smoke-drying, you can experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that the thickness of the slices and the smoking time may vary.
Can I use a different type of smoker?
Yes, you can use a different type of smoker as long as it allows for proper ventilation and maintains a consistent temperature. Electric smokers are commonly used for smoking dried tomatoes due to their convenience and ease of use.
How long can I store smoke-dried tomatoes?
For long-term storage (2 weeks or more), refrigerate the oil/tomatoes to prevent spoilage. Olive oil can go rancid, so it's important to keep it refrigerated. If you have excess tomatoes and run out of oil, simply add more oil to the jar. You can also freeze smoke-dried tomatoes for up to one year.
Can I use smoke-dried tomatoes in salads?
Absolutely! Smoke-dried tomatoes add a unique smoky flavor to salads. Just rehydrate them in hot water or olive oil before adding them to your salad.
Can I use the smoke-dried tomato oil for cooking?
Yes, the smoke-infused olive oil can be used for cooking. It adds a delightful smoky flavor to sautéed vegetables, pasta dishes, and dressings.
In Conclusion
Smoked tomatoes are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations. By following the simple process of smoking and dehydrating tomatoes, you can enjoy the intense flavor of smoke-dried tomatoes in various dishes. From pasta to salads, these flavor-packed tomatoes are sure to impress. So, why not give smoke-dried tomatoes a try and experience a burst of smoky goodness in every bite?
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