Spotlight Series: All About Sun Dried Tomatoes

Welcome to the vibrant world of sun-dried tomatoes, a simple yet delightful ingredient that can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary creations! If you've ever wondered about these intensely flavorful, slightly chewy delights, you're in for a treat. Sun-dried tomatoes are not just for gourmet chefs; they're a versatile addition to any kitchen. Join us as we explore how these gems are made and the many delicious ways to use them in your cooking. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just curious about expanding your cooking repertoire, there's something for everyone to learn and enjoy!

Shop DeLallo Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

What are sun-dried tomatoes?

Our Sun-Dried Tomatoes are sweet, sun-kissed and grown in Puglia, Italy, an ideal region for growing and drying tomatoes. Packed in oil and marinated with a careful blend of fresh herbs and spices—ready for serving as a traditional Southern Italian antipasto or using in a number of kitchen recipes.

The origin of sun-dried tomatoes and their brief history

Sun-dried tomatoes, as you might guess from the name, are tomatoes that have been dried in the sun. This simple yet ingenious method of preservation actually dates back to ancient times. It’s believed that as early as 700 BCE, the Aztecs were already sun-drying tomatoes to preserve them. This technique made it possible to store tomatoes for the colder months and to transport them more easily without spoiling.

The practice truly flourished in Italy, particularly in the southern regions like Calabria and Sicily, where the abundant sunlight and Mediterranean climate are perfect for drying fruits and vegetables. Italians have perfected the art of sun-drying tomatoes, and it wasn’t long before these delicious, sun-kissed treats made their way into various aspects of Italian cuisine. From being a staple in sauces and salads to a key ingredient in pasta and pizzas, sun-dried tomatoes have earned their place in the gastronomic world.

The process of making sun-dried tomatoes is as natural as it gets. Fresh tomatoes are picked at their ripest and then sliced and laid out to bask under the sun for several days. This not only removes most of the water content, concentrating the tomato’s flavor and sweetness, but also naturally preserves them. Sometimes, to enhance their taste and longevity, the tomatoes are seasoned with salt, herbs, and spices.

It wasn't until the 1980s and 1990s that sun-dried tomatoes really became popular in other parts of the world, including the United States and the UK. They became a symbol of gourmet food and were a trendy ingredient in various dishes, adding a burst of flavor that’s both tangy and sweet.

Today, sun-dried tomatoes are available worldwide and are beloved for their versatility and rich flavor. Whether used in a fancy Italian restaurant or tossed into your homemade salad, they definitely bring a touch of sun and history to any dish.

How are sun-dried tomatoes made and what are they made of?

Sun-dried tomatoes are a delicious and versatile treat made simply from tomatoes that have been dried in the sun or through artificial methods to remove most of their water content. This process concentrates their flavor, making them a bit sweeter and more intense than fresh tomatoes.

Here's how they're made:

1. Choosing the Tomatoes: The best sun-dried tomatoes start with ripe, juicy tomatoes. Plum tomatoes, like Romas, are often preferred because they have fewer seeds and more flesh, but any tomato can be used.

2. Preparation: The tomatoes are washed, and their stems are removed. Then, they're often cut in half or sliced to ensure they dry evenly.

3. Salting (optional): Sometimes, the tomatoes are lightly salted to enhance flavor and help in the drying process.

4. Drying: The prepared tomatoes are placed on large trays or racks. They're then left under the sun for several days, typically covered with a net to protect them from insects and birds. In regions without sufficient sunlight, tomatoes can also be dried in ovens or dehydrators.

5. Packing: Once dried, the tomatoes may be packed dry or preserved in olive oil, sometimes with added herbs and spices for extra flavor.

The Best Sun-Dried Tomatoes - The Delallo Difference

At DeLallo, we start with the finest tomatoes, picked at their peak to capture the summer’s warmth. These ruby-red beauties are then sun-dried under the Mediterranean sun, a natural process that locks in an intense tomato flavor and a slightly chewy texture that's both delightful and satisfying. Unlike others, DeLallo sun-dried tomatoes aren't rushed through artificial processes; they are given time to sunbathe, which concentrates their flavor beautifully.

But the DeLallo difference doesn't stop at sun-drying. To elevate their taste even further, these tomatoes are gently marinated with a blend of herbs, spices, and a touch of olive oil, adding an extra layer of flavor that makes them a versatile ingredient in your cooking. Whether you’re tossing them into a fresh salad, stirring through a hot pasta dish, or simply snacking on them right out of the package, DeLallo’s sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of Italian sunshine to any meal.

What really makes DeLallo stand out is their commitment to natural, quality ingredients with no added extras – just pure, sun-kissed tomato goodness. They’re not just delicious; they’re crafted with care, ensuring you can taste the difference in every dish you create.

Ways to use sun dried tomatoes and recipes

While sun-dried tomatoes can be eaten on their own as a quick snack, they are great as a condiment and can add a rich, tangy and delicious element to a myriad of dishes. Put them on pizza, toss them with pasta, or mix them in a salad; serve them as part of an antipasti or charcuterie board, or on toasted bread. They are great to cook with and when you have sun-dried tomatoes in your kitchen, you will always find some creative ways to use them.

Here are a few of our favorite recipes:

Sun Dried Tomatoes: FAQ

What do sun-dried tomatoes taste like?

Sun-dried tomatoes have a unique, intense flavor that's both sweet and tangy. By removing most of the water content through sun-drying, the tomato's natural flavors get super concentrated, which makes them richer and a bit chewier than fresh tomatoes. There's also a slight saltiness to them, often enhanced by the herbs and spices they're preserved with.

What is so special about sun-dried tomatoes?

Sun-dried tomatoes are a delightful culinary gem that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any dish! These tomatoes are made by carefully drying ripe tomatoes under the warm sun, a method that has been used for centuries, particularly in Italy. This not only preserves them for longer periods but also concentrates their flavors into a richer, more robust taste compared to fresh tomatoes.

The texture of sun-dried tomatoes is another point of delight. They're chewy yet tender, making them a perfect addition to enhance dishes like pasta, salads, and sandwiches. Moreover, they are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all while being low in fat.

What is the best substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Here are some great options to consider:

Roasted Red Peppers: These are soft, slightly sweet, and have a smoky flavor, making them a fantastic substitute, especially in pasta dishes or salads. Chop them up to match the texture of sun-dried tomatoes.

Fresh Tomatoes: If you're in a pinch, fresh tomatoes can work, although they're juicier and less intense in flavor. To get a closer match, try roasting them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt until they're concentrated and a bit caramelized.

Canned Tomatoes: You can drain and chop canned tomatoes. If you have a bit more time, gently simmer them on the stove to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavor, mimicking the rich taste of sun-dried tomatoes.

Tomato Paste: If your recipe only calls for a small amount of sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste can be an alternative. It's thicker and has a deep tomato flavor. Use a small amount to avoid overpowering other ingredients.

Olives: For a burst of umami flavor, chopped olives can be a surprisingly effective substitute. They don't mimic the tomato flavor but do add a similar richness and texture to dishes.

How long are a jar of sun-dried tomatoes good for?

Typically, an unopened jar of sun-dried tomatoes can last for about 12 to 18 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Once you've opened the jar, you'll want to keep it in the refrigerator. In the fridge, they should stay good for about 2 to 3 months. Just make sure the tomatoes are always submerged in oil, which helps to keep them fresh and tasty.

What is the difference between sun-dried tomatoes and regular tomatoes?

Regular tomatoes are the juicy, often bright red fruits we're all familiar with. They're plump and moist, and can be used in everything from salads to sauces. They have a sweet and slightly tart flavor that brightens up any dish.

Sun-dried tomatoes, on the other hand, are regular tomatoes that have been left to dry out in the sun (or in a dehydrator) for several days. This process removes most of the water content from the tomatoes, leaving them much smaller, chewier, and with a more concentrated flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes are a bit tangy and sweet, with an intense tomato taste. They're typically preserved in oil and used in pastas, salads, and gourmet sandwiches to add a punch of flavor.

Where can I buy DeLallo Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

Order DeLallo Sun-Dried Tomatoes online or find it at most major supermarkets across the country.