Best Southern Stewed Tomatoes Recipe

Southern Stewed Tomatoes are bursting with flavor. Ripe tomatoes are simmered to perfection, creating a hearty and soul-soothing dish that pairs perfectly with any meal or stands alone as a comforting treat. Get ready to savor a taste of the South with every spoonful!

What are Southern Stewed Tomatoes?

Southern Stewed Tomatoes are a classic Southern dish made by simmering ripe tomatoes with onions, bell peppers, garlic, and a variety of spices until thick and flavorful.

This cooking method creates a rich, savory tomato sauce that’s perfect for serving as a side dish, topping for meats, or even as a standalone comfort food.

The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with Southern charm.

Which tomatoes to use for Stewed Tomatoes?

If you plan to go with fresh tomatoes for Southern Stewed Tomatoes, you’ll want to use ripe, flavorful tomatoes that hold up well to cooking. While any variety of tomato can technically be used, some are better suited for stewing due to their texture and taste. Here are a few options:

1. Also known as plum tomatoes, Roma tomatoes are popular for stewing because they have fewer seeds and firmer flesh, which holds up well during cooking. They also have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stewed tomatoes.
2. San Marzano Tomatoes: These Italian tomatoes have a sweet, tangy flavor and firm texture. They are often used in traditional Italian dishes like marinara sauce and are a great choice for Southern Stewed Tomatoes as well.
3. Heirloom tomatoes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each with its own unique flavor profile. Look for heirloom varieties with a good balance of sweetness and acidity, as well as firm flesh that will hold up well to stewing.
4. Beefsteak tomatoes are large, meaty tomatoes with a rich, robust flavor. While they can be a bit juicier than Roma or San Marzano tomatoes, they still work well for stewing, especially if you prefer a chunkier texture in your stewed tomatoes.

Ultimately, the best tomatoes for stewing are those that are ripe, flavorful, and have a firm texture that will hold up well to cooking. But instead of fresh tomatoes, you can also go with canned tomatoes.

What goes into this best Stewed Tomatoes Recipe

To prepare Southern Stewed Tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• One can of canned tomatoes: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes to ensure the best flavor for your dish.
• Two tablespoons of vegan butter: This will add a rich and creamy texture to the dish. If you don’t have vegan butter, you can substitute regular butter or oil.
• One medium onion: Finely chop the onion.
• One medium bell pepper: dice it finely.
• Two teaspoons of sugar: This will balance the acidity of the tomatoes and give the dish a slightly sweet flavor. Go for brown sugar if you like.
• Add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavor of the dish.

How to make Southern Stewed Tomatoes

To make Southern Stewed Tomatoes, start by heating a bit of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat on the stove top.

Add diced onions, and bell peppers, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant.

Next, add in fresh diced tomatoes, along with their juices, or canned diced tomatoes if preferred. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Add sugar to balance the acidity. Simmer the mixture uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.

Adjust the seasoning to taste, and if desired, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your Southern Stewed Tomatoes warm as a side dish or topping for your favorite Southern meal!

What to serve Southern Stewed Tomatoes with?

Southern Stewed Tomatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, adding a burst of flavor and Southern flair to any meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside Southern Stewed Tomatoes:

1. Southern Classics: Enjoy Southern Stewed Tomatoes alongside traditional Southern dishes such as cornbread, biscuits, grits, collard greens, or black-eyed peas for a comforting and soulful meal.
2. Breakfast Fare: Serve the stewed tomatoes alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, bacon, sausage, or hash browns for a flavorful Southern-style breakfast.
3. Pasta Dishes: Use the stewed tomatoes as a sauce for pasta dishes such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine. Simply spoon the tomatoes over cooked pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a simple yet delicious meal.
4. Sandwiches or Wraps: Use the stewed tomatoes as a flavorful topping or spread for sandwiches, wraps, or paninis. They pair well with grilled cheese, BLTs, or turkey sandwiches for a Southern twist on classic lunch fare.
5. Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Serve the stewed tomatoes alongside vegetarian or vegan dishes such as grilled tofu, roasted vegetables, or bean-based dishes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
6. Rice or Grains: Spoon the stewed tomatoes over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a quick and easy side dish that’s full of flavor and pairs well with a variety of main courses.

No matter how you choose to enjoy them, Southern Stewed Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

Can one have Southern Stewed Tomatoes for breakfast?

Absolutely! Southern Stewed Tomatoes make a delightful addition to breakfast.

Serve them alongside classic morning staples like scrambled eggs, biscuits, or grits for a hearty and flavorful start to your day. The savory flavors of the stewed tomatoes complement the richness of eggs or the comforting texture of biscuits and grits.

Plus, the bright and vibrant colors of the tomatoes add a pop of freshness to your breakfast plate. So go ahead, enjoy Southern Stewed Tomatoes to kick off your morning with a taste of Southern comfort!

Other stew recipes to try

• Brunswick Stew
• Cowboy Stew
• Japanese Curry

If you like this Southern Stewed Tomatoes Recipe, share your comments below or on Instagram and Facebook.

Enjoy, Florian.