Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Glass jars for storage
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the tomato mixture over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
4. Add the fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the compote cool to room temperature.
6. Once cooled, remove the thyme sprigs and transfer the compote to glass jars for storage.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes approximately 2 cups of compote
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1/4 cup):
Calories: 95
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 120mg
Sugar: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Red wine vinegar can be used instead of balsamic vinegar.
- Dried thyme can be used instead of fresh thyme.
Variations:
- Add chopped onions or bell peppers to the skillet for extra flavor.
- Use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes for a sweeter compote.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Stir the compote occasionally to prevent burning.
- Store the compote in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Storage instructions:
Store the compote in glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the compote in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the compote as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or as a spread on crostini.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley.
Pairings:
Serve the compote with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for bruschetta.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the compote with a side salad or roasted potatoes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the compote is too thick, add a splash of water or balsamic vinegar to thin it out.
- If the compote is too thin, continue cooking over low heat until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean, sterilized jars for storage.
- Refrigerate the compote immediately after cooking.
Food history:
Tomato compote is a classic French dish that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
The compote has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of garlic and thyme.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the compote as a topping for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a spread on crostini.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Savory, Caramelized, Rich