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Old Fashioned Stewed Tomatoes

This classic old fashioned stewed tomato side is simple, cozy, and full of home-style flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp salted butter Use unsalted butter if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion Can substitute sweet or white onion.
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper Red bell pepper can be used for a sweeter taste.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
Tomato Ingredients
  • 2 cans 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained Can substitute with about 2 lb of fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped.
Seasonings
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt Add more to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme Use 1/2 tsp if using fresh thyme.
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 slice stale or toasted white bread, torn into small pieces Optional for thickening.
  • to taste chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish Use chives or dill if preferred.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using fresh tomatoes, cut a small X in the bottom of each and boil them for 30 to 60 seconds. Move to an ice bath for about 1 minute, then peel, halve, scoop out the seeds, and chop.
Cooking
  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and green bell pepper, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  2. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, sugar, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix well to combine the seasonings.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a thicker texture, stir in the torn bread halfway through.
Serve
  1. Taste the stewed tomatoes and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley or basil before serving warm.

Notes

This dish pairs well with roasted meats and is suitable for any meal, especially potlucks due to its ease of scaling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.