Tomato compote

A sweet or savory dish made from tomatoes

Tomato Compote

A bowl of tomato compote

Tomato compote is a dish made from tomatoes, which can be prepared as either a sweet or savory accompaniment. It is a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of culinary applications, ranging from a topping for meats to a spread for breads.

Preparation

Tomato compote is typically made by cooking tomatoes slowly over low heat. The tomatoes are often peeled and seeded before cooking to achieve a smoother texture. The cooking process allows the natural sugars in the tomatoes to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients for tomato compote include:

• Tomatoes
• Sugar or honey (for sweet compote)
• Salt and pepper (for savory compote)
• Herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano
• Spices like cinnamon or clove (for sweet compote)
• Vinegar or lemon juice for acidity

Cooking Method

1. Preparation of Tomatoes: Begin by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water to remove the skins. Once peeled, the tomatoes are chopped and the seeds are removed. 2. Cooking: Place the prepared tomatoes in a saucepan. Add sugar or honey for a sweet compote, or salt and pepper for a savory version. Include herbs and spices as desired. 3. Simmering: Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. 4. Finishing: Adjust seasoning to taste and add vinegar or lemon juice for a balanced flavor.

Uses

Tomato compote can be used in various ways:

• As a topping for grilled meats or fish
• As a spread on bread or crackers
• As a filling for pastries or tarts
• As a condiment for cheese platters

Nutritional Information

Tomato compote is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes. The nutritional content can vary based on the additional ingredients used, such as sugar or honey.

Related pages

• Tomato
• Compote
• Jam
• Preserves