Infused Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil, Rosemary, and Garlic

So, your garden has gifted you an abundance of tomatoes, and you’re yearning to turn them into a culinary masterpiece. Let’s embark on a journey of dehydrating, rehydrating, and infusing your tomatoes with the flavors of the Mediterranean, all while adding a hint of vinegar for an extra layer of sophistication.

1. Dehydrating Brilliance:

Begin by washing and slicing your tomatoes into even pieces. Remove excess seeds to prevent added moisture during dehydration. Lay the slices on your dehydrator trays with enough space between each piece. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (around 135°F or 57°C) and let them transform over the next 6 to 24 hours.

2. Rehydration with a Vinegar Bath:

Once dehydrated, it’s time to bring your tomatoes back to life. Place them in a bowl and cover them with boiling water (1 liter) mixed with 100-150ml of vinegar. Let them soak for 1-2 minutes until they plump up. This vinegar bath not only rehydrates the tomatoes but adds a subtle tang that will play beautifully with the other flavors.

3. Mediterranean Symphony:

In a jar, layer the rehydrated tomatoes with fresh rosemary sprigs, garlic slices, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Now, introduce the liquid gold – extra virgin olive oil. Pour the oil over the tomatoes until they are fully submerged, creating a fragrant medley that is the heart of this Mediterranean infusion.

4. The Vinegar Touch:

As the final touch of elegance, add a splash of vinegar to the mix. Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar works wonderfully, providing a delightful acidity that complements the richness of the olive oil and the sweetness of the tomatoes. This addition elevates your creation to a gourmet level.

5. Marination Magic:

Seal the jar and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. This time allows the tomatoes to soak in the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of Mediterranean delights with a hint of vinegar.

6. Culinary Brilliance Unleashed:

Your jar of vinegar-infused, Mediterranean sun-dried tomatoes is now ready to transform your dishes. From pasta to salads and beyond, these tomatoes bring a burst of flavor. Drizzle the infused olive oil over bruschetta, use it as a dipping sauce for bread, or incorporate it into your favorite salad dressing.

7. Storage for Ongoing Delight:

Store your jar in the refrigerator, ensuring the tomatoes are fully submerged in the olive oil. This will maintain their freshness, and the flavors will continue to develop over time.

With a dash of vinegar, your journey from dehydrating to infusing has taken on an extra layer of sophistication. Get ready to savor the Mediterranean elegance you’ve crafted right from your garden, adding a touch of culinary brilliance to every dish.