Basket tomatoes, those overflowing gifts from the garden or the farmers market, present a delightful challenge: transforming a bounty of red ripeness into delicious creations. But what exactly can you make with this abundance? The possibilities are truly vast, spanning from fresh and vibrant salads to comforting, simmered sauces and beyond. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to explore the many ways to savor the flavor of basket tomatoes.
Tomato Sauce: The Foundation of Flavor
Tomato sauce is arguably the most versatile and rewarding way to use a large harvest of tomatoes. Homemade tomato sauce far surpasses the store-bought variety in flavor and freshness. It’s the base for countless dishes, from pasta and pizza to stews and soups.
Classic Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is the quintessential tomato sauce, simple yet bursting with flavor. It typically includes tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. The key to a great marinara lies in the quality of the tomatoes and a gentle simmering process that allows the flavors to meld together.
To make marinara, start by blanching the tomatoes to remove the skins. Roughly chop the peeled tomatoes. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the tomatoes, a pinch of sugar (to balance the acidity), salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Simmer for at least an hour, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender.
Hearty Bolognese Sauce
Bolognese sauce takes tomato sauce to the next level with the addition of ground meat, vegetables, and often wine and milk. It’s a richer, more complex sauce that’s perfect for long, thick pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle.
Creating a Bolognese sauce involves browning ground beef, pork, or a combination of both. Add finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery (mirepoix) and sauté until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for a few minutes. Add red wine and let it reduce. Then add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings like bay leaf, oregano, and thyme. Simmer for several hours, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to deepen. Stir in a splash of milk or cream near the end for added richness.
Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
For those who like a little heat, arrabbiata sauce is an excellent choice. This simple sauce gets its kick from red pepper flakes, creating a fiery and flavorful experience.
Arrabbiata sauce is made similarly to marinara, but with the addition of red pepper flakes. Sauté garlic in olive oil with the red pepper flakes until fragrant. Add the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar. Simmer until the sauce has thickened. Fresh parsley is often added at the end for a burst of freshness.
Fresh Tomato Delights: Salads and More
Tomatoes shine in their fresh form, offering a burst of sweetness and acidity that complements a variety of dishes. From simple salads to innovative appetizers, fresh tomatoes are a true culinary gift.
Classic Tomato Salad
The simplest tomato salad celebrates the pure flavor of the fruit. Slice ripe tomatoes and arrange them on a plate. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch.
A variation on this classic is the Caprese salad, which combines sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. A drizzle of balsamic glaze elevates this simple salad to an elegant appetizer.
Tomato Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that features grilled bread topped with fresh ingredients. To make tomato bruschetta, dice ripe tomatoes and mix them with minced garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spoon the tomato mixture onto grilled slices of bread and serve immediately.
Gazpacho: A Chilled Tomato Soup
Gazpacho is a refreshing chilled soup originating from Spain. It’s a perfect way to use ripe tomatoes in the summer months.
To make gazpacho, blend ripe tomatoes with cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings. The soup is traditionally served cold and can be garnished with diced vegetables, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Preserving the Harvest: Canning and Freezing
When you have more tomatoes than you can possibly use fresh, preserving them becomes essential. Canning and freezing are two popular methods for extending the life of your tomato harvest.
Canning Whole Tomatoes
Canning whole tomatoes allows you to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes year-round. It requires proper sterilization of jars and a water bath canner to ensure food safety. Always follow safe canning practices.
To can whole tomatoes, blanch and peel the tomatoes. Pack them into sterilized jars, leaving headspace. Add a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to each jar (to increase acidity). Process the jars in a boiling water bath according to USDA guidelines.
Freezing Tomato Sauce
Freezing tomato sauce is a simple way to preserve its flavor. Prepare the tomato sauce according to your preferred recipe. Allow it to cool completely. Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to six months.
Roasting Tomatoes for Freezing
Roasting tomatoes before freezing intensifies their flavor. Cut the tomatoes in half and toss them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until softened and slightly caramelized. Let cool, then freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags. Roasted tomatoes can be used in sauces, soups, or stews.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Tomato Uses
Beyond the traditional sauces, salads, and preservation methods, there are many other creative ways to use basket tomatoes. Let’s explore some less common but equally delicious options.
Tomato Jam
Tomato jam is a sweet and savory condiment that’s perfect for spreading on toast, serving with cheese, or using as a glaze for meats. It’s made by cooking down tomatoes with sugar, vinegar, and spices.
The recipe for tomato jam varies, but it typically includes diced tomatoes, sugar, vinegar (such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar), and spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and red pepper flakes. The mixture is simmered until it thickens into a jam-like consistency.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a flavorful addition to pastas, salads, and antipasto platters. While traditionally dried in the sun, they can also be made in the oven or a dehydrator.
To make sun-dried tomatoes in the oven, cut the tomatoes in half and arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and herbs. Bake at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) for several hours, until the tomatoes are shriveled and slightly chewy.
Tomato Chutney
Tomato chutney is a tangy and flavorful condiment that’s popular in Indian cuisine. It’s made by cooking tomatoes with spices, vinegar, and sugar.
The ingredients for tomato chutney can include diced tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, chili peppers, vinegar, sugar, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The mixture is simmered until it thickens into a chutney-like consistency.
Tomato Soup
Homemade tomato soup is a comforting and satisfying meal. It can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes and is often served with grilled cheese.
To make tomato soup, sauté onions and garlic in butter or olive oil. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings. Simmer until the tomatoes are softened. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in cream or milk for added richness.
Tomato Juice
Homemade tomato juice is a refreshing and healthy beverage. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails like Bloody Marys.
To make tomato juice, blend ripe tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds and skin. Chill before serving.
Pickled Green Tomatoes
If you have some unripe green tomatoes at the end of the season, don’t let them go to waste! Pickled green tomatoes are a tangy and crunchy treat.
To pickle green tomatoes, slice them and soak them in saltwater for a few hours. Drain and rinse the tomatoes. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Pack the tomatoes into sterilized jars and pour the hot brine over them. Process the jars in a boiling water bath according to USDA guidelines.
Tomato-Based Drinks
Think outside the box! Tomatoes aren’t just for eating. They can also be used to create refreshing and flavorful drinks.
Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a classic brunch cocktail made with tomato juice, vodka, and a variety of spices and seasonings. It can be customized to suit your taste preferences, with additions like hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, and lemon juice.
Tomato Water
Tomato water is a clear and refreshing liquid extracted from tomatoes. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in cocktails, soups, and sauces.
To make tomato water, coarsely chop ripe tomatoes and place them in a colander lined with cheesecloth. Let the tomatoes drain overnight in the refrigerator. The clear liquid that drips out is tomato water.
Conclusion
As you can see, a basket of tomatoes offers a world of culinary possibilities. From simple salads to complex sauces and beyond, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavor of these garden gems. So, embrace the bounty, experiment in the kitchen, and savor the deliciousness that a basket of tomatoes can bring to your table. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
What exactly are “basket tomatoes” and how are they different?
Basket tomatoes, sometimes called “seconds” or “canning tomatoes,” are tomatoes that aren’t quite perfect enough to be sold individually as Grade A produce. They might have slight blemishes, irregular shapes, or uneven ripening. However, they are perfectly safe and flavorful to eat, making them ideal for processing and cooking.
While they may not be visually appealing on a salad plate, the lower price point makes basket tomatoes a cost-effective option for large-batch cooking projects. The imperfections are usually superficial and easily removed during preparation, leaving you with delicious tomato flesh perfect for sauces, soups, and more.
What’s the best way to store basket tomatoes before using them?
The optimal way to store basket tomatoes before using them depends on their ripeness. If they’re still slightly firm, store them at room temperature, ideally in a single layer on a tray or in a basket lined with paper towels, away from direct sunlight. This allows them to ripen fully and evenly.
If the tomatoes are already ripe, store them in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process and prevent them from becoming overripe or spoiling. Use them within a few days for the best flavor and texture, as refrigeration can sometimes affect their quality.
Can I freeze basket tomatoes for later use?
Yes, freezing is an excellent way to preserve basket tomatoes, especially if you have a large quantity. The simplest method is to wash and core the tomatoes, then freeze them whole on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer them to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
Alternatively, you can puree the tomatoes before freezing. Simmer them briefly to reduce their water content, then cool and portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Remember to label each container with the date and contents for easy identification later.
What are some simple sauces I can make with basket tomatoes?
One incredibly simple and versatile sauce is a basic tomato sauce. Simply sauté some garlic and onions in olive oil, add the chopped basket tomatoes, herbs like basil and oregano, and simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Another easy option is a roasted tomato sauce. Toss quartered basket tomatoes with olive oil, garlic cloves, and herbs, then roast them in a hot oven until softened and slightly caramelized. Blend the roasted tomatoes with a hand blender or food processor for a rich and flavorful sauce, perfect for pasta or pizza.
Beyond sauces, what other culinary creations can basket tomatoes be used for?
Basket tomatoes are fantastic for making homemade tomato soup. Roast or sauté the tomatoes with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, then simmer them in broth until tender. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy for a comforting and flavorful soup.
They’re also excellent for creating flavorful salsas and chutneys. Dice the tomatoes and combine them with onions, peppers, cilantro, and spices for a fresh and zesty salsa. Alternatively, cook the tomatoes with vinegar, sugar, and spices for a sweet and tangy chutney, perfect as a condiment or relish.
How can I use basket tomatoes to make sun-dried tomatoes?
You can create a delicious homemade version of sun-dried tomatoes in your oven using basket tomatoes. Halve or quarter the tomatoes, remove the seeds, and arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs and salt, and bake at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) for several hours until they are shrunken and leathery.
Alternatively, use a dehydrator to dry the tomatoes at a low temperature according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once dried, store the tomatoes in olive oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and preservation.
How do I deal with the excess juice from basket tomatoes when making sauces?
Excess juice can be a challenge when using basket tomatoes for sauces, but there are a few ways to manage it. You can reduce the juice by simmering the sauce for a longer period over low heat, allowing the water to evaporate gradually. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Another option is to remove some of the seeds and pulp from the tomatoes before cooking, as these contribute significantly to the liquid content. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce with a small amount of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry if needed, but use sparingly to avoid altering the flavor profile too much.