How to Make Sun-Dried Tomatoes at Home

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Sun-dried tomatoes can be easily made at home when ripe tomatoes are dried in the sun or using artificial methods, such as an oven or food dehydrator. The drying removes about 88-93% of the moisture from the tomatoes, resulting in shriveled, intensely flavored tomatoes.

Learn some more easy how-to and pickling recipes on the blog here on how to dry mint, how to roast cumin seeds, bhindi ka achar, etc.

Tomatoes for sundrying

Traditionally, sun-dried tomatoes were prepared by placing ripe tomatoes in the sun for several days until they reached the desired dryness. However, modern commercial production often involves the use of dehydrators or ovens to speed up the process.

sliced tomatoes for sundrying

Sun-dried tomatoes have a concentrated, rich, sweet, tangy flavor. The drying process enhances the natural sugars in the tomatoes, intensifying their taste. They have a chewy texture and can range in color from deep red to dark brown, depending on the variety of tomatoes used and the drying method employed.

salt & black pepper for sundried Tomatoes

These tomatoes are widely used in Mediterranean cuisine and are a popular ingredient in various dishes. They can be added to salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, sandwiches, and sauces, providing a burst of robust tomato flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes can also be rehydrated in water or oil before use, softening them and returning some of their original texture.

sundried Tomatoes in a plate

In addition to their culinary uses, sun-dried tomatoes are known for their long shelf life. When stored properly in airtight containers, they can be kept for several months, making them a convenient pantry staple.

how to Sundry Tomatoes

The process is simple enough and all you need is sun to dry them. Simply slice the tomatoes into the same-sized slices or you can only half them. The important part is to ensure that the size of tomatoes should be uniform to facilitate even drying.

Tomatoes ready to be Sundried

Place the tomatoes on a raised screen to allow moisture to evaporate from under the screen as well. You can use a screen, or a muslin cloth over raised legs like a mesh cot (चारपाई) and dry them naturally in the sun for 4 days to up to two weeks.

Tomatoes spread on a sheet for sundrying

Cover the tomatoes on top with a muslin cloth or cheesecloth to avoid critters or birds pecking on them and allow even drying. Also, do not forget to bring them inside during the night to avoid evening dew adding moisture back to the tomatoes.

store sundried Tomatoes in a jar

When stored properly the sun-dried tomatoes can last up to several months and adds great flavor to your meals. The sun-dried tomatoes should be perfectly dry but not crisp or burnt. There should be no inner moisture to avoid bacteria growth.

Tomatoes to be sundried

If you are adding oil or herbs to sun-dried tomatoes then they need to be refrigerated after opening.

salted tomatoes ready for sundrying

Indulge in the intense flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. These shriveled, tangy gems are bursting with rich sweetness, thanks to the drying process that concentrates their natural sugars.

Tomatoes set for sundrying

Perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, salads, pasta, and more, sun-dried tomatoes add a robust touch to your culinary creations. Rehydrate them for a softer texture or savor their chewy goodness as is. With their long shelf life, these versatile delights are a pantry essential. Discover the vibrant taste of sun-dried tomatoes and elevate your meals with a Mediterranean twist.

Try the easy steps to make sun-dried tomatoes at home now!

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomatoes at Home

Indulge in the intense flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. These shriveled, tangy gems are bursting with rich sweetness, due to the drying process that concentrates their natural sugars.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Drying Time2 days
Total Time2 days 15 minutes
Course: Appetizer, DIY, Pickle, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian
Keyword: Quick & Easy, Vegetable
Servings: 250 gram

Ingredients

  • 2 kg roma tomatoes use any variety of your choice
  • 1 tbsp sea salt to sprinkle
  • black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

  • Thoroughly wash and clean the tomatoes
  • Slice the tomatoes evenly or halve them. Ensure they are of equal size for even-drying.
  • Place them on a slightly raised bed to allow uniform evaporation. Cover the tomatoes with a thin cheescloth or muslin.
  • Place the prepared tomatoes in the sun.
  • Bring them inside during the night to avoid evening dew adding moisture back to the tomatoes.
  • Repeat this for 4 days upto 2 weeks till the tomatoes are dried completely.
  • Allow them to dry till they loose 88-93% of their moisture and became dry but not crispy.
  • Store the sun-dried tomatoes properly in an air-tight jar. They can last up to several months and adds great flavor to your meals.

Notes

  1. Place the tomatoes on a raised screen to allow moisture to evaporate from under the screen as well.
  2. You can use a screen, or a muslin cloth over raised legs like a mesh cot (चारपाई) and dry them naturally in the sun for 4 days to up to two weeks.
  3. Do not forget to bring them inside during the night to avoid evening dew adding moisture back to the tomatoes.
  4. The sun-dried tomatoes should be perfectly dry but not crisp or burnt. There should be no inner moisture to avoid bacteria growth.
  5. If you are adding oil or herbs to sun-dried tomatoes then they need to be refrigerated after opening.

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