Tomato Confit is an incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful dish that transforms ordinary tomatoes into a versatile culinary delight. This method of slow-cooking tomatoes in olive oil, along with aromatics like garlic and herbs, gently breaks them down, intensifying their natural sweetness and flavors. The resulting tomatoes are meltingly tender, rich, and infused with the aromatic oils, making them a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or simply as a luxurious topping on grilled bread. Tomato Confit can be made with cherry tomatoes or larger varieties, depending on what’s available, and the oil used in cooking becomes a deliciously flavored addition to dressings and cooking, capturing the essence of summer in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes (cherry, grape, or small heirloom varieties work well)
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed
- A few sprigs of fresh thyme
- A few sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Directions:
- Prepare the tomatoes:
- If using larger tomatoes, core and slice them into halves or quarters. If using cherry or grape tomatoes, you can leave them whole.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Assemble the confit:
- Arrange the tomatoes in a single layer in a large baking dish. Scatter the garlic cloves and herbs among the tomatoes. Generously drizzle the olive oil over the top and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Slow cook the tomatoes:
- Place the dish in the oven and cook for about 2 to 3 hours. The exact time will depend on the size of your tomatoes; they should be very tender but not falling apart.
- Cool and store:
- Allow the tomatoes to cool in the oil. Then, transfer the tomatoes and the oil into airtight jars. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve:
- Use the tomato confit as a topping on toasted baguette slices, stirred into pastas, or as an accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. The oil is also fantastic for dressing salads or for dipping bread.
Tomato Confit is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking, focusing on quality ingredients and gentle cooking methods to elevate the humble tomato to luxurious heights. This dish not only adds a touch of elegance to various meals but also provides a delightful way to preserve the bounty of summer tomatoes.
