Southern Stewed Tomatoes

Overhead view of stewed tomatoes in a white bowl with a spoon next to it.

This Southern stewed tomatoes recipe is perfect for using up an abundance of homegrown tomatoes, and it's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served as a side dish or a comforting breakfast with buttered toast, these tomatoes are sure to become a family favorite. They freeze well, too, so you can have this simple dish all year long.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American - Southern, American - Vintage

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 83kcal

Author Marye Audet-White

Equipment

Ingredients

2 ½ pounds tomatoes
½ cup bell pepper diced
½ cup onion diced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon sugar
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add tomatoes.
Boil for 1 minute, quickly drain, and drop into a bowl of very cold water.
Slip the skins off.
Slice the tomatoes into rounds or dice them.
Melt the butter in a heavy skillet and add the bell peppers and onions.
Saute for about 2 minutes, or until slightly softened.
Add the tomatoes and sugar.
Stir to mix.
Cover tightly and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until tender, stirring often.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

Storage:

Stewed tomatoes last refrigerated in an airtight container for three to five days.

You can also store them in heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze them for up to three months.

Tips:

Use a well-seasoned skillet or dutch oven when working with acidic tomatoes to avoid them picking up a metallic flavor.
If you must use a large saucepan, avoid reactive materials, like aluminum and non-stainless steel.
All tomato varieties work in stewed tomatoes. I like the big Beefsteak, Roma, and Plum tomatoes.
If your stewed tomatoes are a bit thin after cooking, try to let them reduce a bit longer so more liquid can evaporate.
If they're still too runny after cooling down, whisk in a tiny bit of cornstarch, bring the mixture back up to a simmer, and let it thicken to your liking.

Nutrition