Savor the Sicilian Sun: Delectable Homemade Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Welcome to the world of authentic flavors and Sicilian culinary tradition!
In this recipe, we’ll embark on a journey to prepare the delicious Sun-dried Tomatoes, one of the most iconic preserves of the island.
With their intense flavors and culinary versatility, these tomatoes are the true treasure of Sicilian summers.
Sicily is renowned for the quality of its vegetables, and among them, tomatoes shine brightly.
During the scorching Mediterranean sun, precisely from the second half of July to the first decade of August, skilled Sicilian homemakers begin the process of making sun-dried tomatoes.
This delicacy requires only 4 – 5 days of exposure to the sun to be perfected.
The result of this tradition is a gourmet product, preserved in glass jars to be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a condiment for various dishes.
Sun-dried Tomatoes are an explosion of flavor, rich in vitamin C and minerals, yet low in calories.
They embody the essence of summer and are the key ingredient that adds zest to a wide range of dishes, from salads to alternative spreads and pestos.
However, please pay close attention to the sterilization of the jars; a misstep in this process can lead to the formation of dangerous toxins that can be harmful to our health.
So, let’s dive into the art of making Sicilian Sun-dried Tomatoes, a journey that combines tradition, flavor, and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun.

Yields and Prep Times

• Yield: Multiple servings
• Preparation Time: 36 hours

Nutritional values per serving of Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Calories: 260 kcal
• Proteins: 2-3 g
• Fat: 20-25 g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 g
• Fiber: 5-6 g

Ingredients

• Ripe tomatoes
• Salt
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Bay leaves

Directions

1. To prepare these savoury tomatoes, start by thoroughly washing the vegetables and drying them. Cut them in half and place them on a mat with the cut side facing up. Sprinkle with salt and let them dry in the sun for a few days.
2. The Sun-dried Tomatoes will be ready when they take on a rich dark color. Remember to bring them indoors at night.
3. Once the Sun-dried Tomatoes are ready, store them in glass jars, known in Sicilian as ‘burnìe‘. Pack the tomatoes into the jar and fill it with extra virgin olive oil.
4. Place 2 – 3 bay leaves on top of the tomatoes to impart a delicate aroma to the preserve. Keep in mind, it’s best to wait a day before sealing the jars, allowing the Sun-dried Tomatoes to settle. To facilitate this, gently tap the jar on the table. After a couple of days, check the oil level and add more if needed. Sometimes, for added flavor, a pinch of oregano is also included.

How to Store Sun-dried Tomatoes

1. Store the jars in a cool, dark place to preserve the flavor and freshness.
2. Avoid freezing: Due to the drying process, it is not advisable to freeze Sun-dried Tomatoes.

Your Culinary Adventure with Ricette di Sicilia: Sun-dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried Tomatoes narrate the story of Sicily through their intense flavors and traditions passed down from generation to generation. This versatility is also the very essence of Sicilian food, a cuisine that celebrates the land and sea in every dish.
This preserve represents a true treasure trove of tradition, taste, and versatility. Furthermore, preparing these tomatoes is a tribute to Sicilian cuisine and the authentic flavors of the region. Enjoy every bite and immerse yourself in the beauty of this specialty that turns every dish into a culinary masterpiece.

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