What Is Sun-Dried Tomato?
Sun-dried tomato is a product obtained by cutting ripe tomatoes in half and drying them in the sun or oven to remove most of their water content. This process intensifies the taste and significantly extends shelf life.
In its dry form it looks hard and shriveled, while soaked in olive oil it looks soft and glossy. It has a sweet-sour, intense tomato aroma.
Nutritional Values of Sun-Dried Tomato
Due to water loss, sun-dried tomato has a much more concentrated nutrient content than fresh tomato; 100 g of the dry (fat-free) product provides about 258 kcal of energy. It is quite rich in potassium and iron.
What Are the Benefits of Sun-Dried Tomato?
The drying process can lead to a concentration of some plant compounds in tomato, such as lycopene; research on this is ongoing. With its high potassium content, it can be considered part of a balanced diet.
This information is general; sun-dried tomato is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Products stored in oil have a significantly higher calorie and fat content than the dry form.
How to Choose Sun-Dried Tomato?
Good-quality sun-dried tomato should be dark red-maroon in color, pliable, and free of mold.
- The color should be dark red-maroon; grayish tones may indicate staleness.
- The texture should not be excessively hard and stone-like, it should be slightly pliable.
- For products sold in olive oil, make sure the oil is clear and free of mold spots.
How to Store Sun-Dried Tomato?
In its dry form it can be stored for 6-12 months in a sealed container, in a cool, dry place. Sun-dried tomato soaked in olive oil keeps its freshness in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks; the oil used can also be valued for its flavor.
Using Sun-Dried Tomato in the Kitchen
Sun-dried tomato is used to add an intense tomato aroma to pasta sauces, pizzas, appetizers, and salads. Its hard, dry form is usually softened in hot water or oil before use.
How to Soften Sun-Dried Tomato?
Dried tomatoes are soaked in hot water and left for 10-15 minutes, then drained and used. If desired, they can be soaked in a jar together with olive oil, garlic, and thyme, both softening and flavoring them.
Which Recipes Use Sun-Dried Tomato?
Pasta with sun-dried tomato, pesto, pizza, and appetizers are among the best-known uses. It is also often preferred on cheese canapés and in salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sun-dried tomato good for?
Sun-dried tomato is rich in potassium, iron, and concentrated plant compounds. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.
Is sun-dried tomato used in the same amount as fresh tomato?
No, since sun-dried tomato has a much more intense aroma, it is generally used in smaller amounts in recipes, and usually in its softened form.
How is sun-dried tomato made at home?
Tomatoes cut in half are lightly salted and dried, cut side up, in a low-heat oven (about 80-100°C) for several hours; they can also be dried outdoors in a sunny, dry climate.
Can sun-dried tomato develop mold?
Sun-dried tomato that is not dried enough or is stored in a humid environment can develop mold; a well-dried and properly stored product can be kept safely for a long time.
Is the oil from sun-dried tomato in olive oil usable?
Yes, this oil, which takes on the aroma of the tomato, can be valued as a tasty addition in salad dressing and pasta recipes.