Maryland Caramel Tomatoes: A Taste of History

The scent of caramelized sugar and roasted tomatoes instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She wasn’t from Maryland, but somehow she discovered a similar method of coaxing sweetness from late-summer tomatoes, turning a simple vegetable into a decadent treat. I remember watching her meticulously peel the tomatoes, a task I now realize was an act of love, transforming ordinary produce into something truly special. This recipe reminds me of those moments – a simple pleasure, slowly savored.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 55-60 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: About 4 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8 large tomatoes (choose firm tomatoes, cored and peeled – see NOTE below for peeling instructions)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick, cut into 1/4-inch pieces)

Equipment Needed

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or large spoon

Instructions

1. Preparing the Tomatoes: The first step is to peel the tomatoes. The easiest way to do this is to score an X at the base of each tomato. Then, plunge them into boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After about 1 minute in the ice bath, you should be able to easily remove the peel with a knife, starting at the X you scored earlier. This step can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s essential for achieving the right texture in the final dish.

2. Preheating the Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Having the rack in the right position helps ensure even browning and prevents the tomatoes from burning on the bottom.

3. Arranging and Seasoning: Arrange the peeled and cored tomatoes in a large ovenproof skillet, cored side up. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Next, sprinkle the light brown sugar evenly over the tomatoes. The sugar will melt and caramelize, creating a luscious sauce.

4. Adding Butter: Dot the tomatoes evenly with the butter pieces. The butter adds richness and helps the tomatoes brown beautifully.

5. Baking: Bake the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Baste them with the pan juices every 15 minutes. This basting ensures that the tomatoes are evenly coated with the sweet and savory sauce and that they cook uniformly. The tomatoes should be tender and lightly browned when they’re ready.

6. Stovetop Simmering: Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer it to the stovetop. Cook over medium-low heat, basting every 5 minutes and adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a rapid simmer. Continue cooking until the sauce is thick and syrupy, about 25 to 30 minutes. This stovetop simmering concentrates the tomato flavor and transforms the sauce into a delicious caramel. Be careful not to burn the sauce, as it can happen quickly at this stage.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Tomato Selection: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the best results. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft or bruised. Roma or plum tomatoes are a good choice, as they have a lower water content.
• Peeling Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can skip the peeling step, but the texture of the final dish will be slightly different. The peels may become a bit tough during cooking.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it altogether. For a spicier dish, add a pinch more.
• Basting is Key: Don’t skip the basting steps. Basting the tomatoes regularly ensures they stay moist and evenly coated with the sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be thick and syrupy, but not too thick. If it becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or tomato juice to thin it out.
• Salt Preference: The original recipe might have called for 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of white pepper, omitting black pepper and cayenne. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to this older specification if that suits your taste preferences.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Maryland Caramel Tomatoes warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. They’re also delicious served over pasta or polenta.

For storage, allow the tomatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	188.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	29%
Total Fat	6.1 g	9%
Saturated Fat	3.7 g	18%
Cholesterol	15.3 mg	5%
Sodium	358.2 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	34.2 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	2.2 g	8%
Sugars	31.5 g	125%
Protein	1.7 g	3%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the tomatoes for a more complex flavor.
• Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar can add a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet along with the tomatoes for a savory twist.
• Sweetener: You can substitute maple syrup or honey for the brown sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
A: While fresh tomatoes are preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce the stovetop simmering time.

Q: Do I have to peel the tomatoes?
A: Peeling the tomatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you skip this step, the peels may be slightly noticeable in the final dish.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Maryland Caramel Tomatoes a day or two in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to serve these tomatoes?
A: They are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a side dish, over pasta, polenta, or grilled bread, or even as a topping for bruschetta.

Q: Can I freeze these tomatoes?
A: While you can freeze them, the texture of the tomatoes may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Maryland Caramel Tomatoes are more than just a recipe; they’re a culinary journey through time, offering a taste of history and a burst of sweet and savory flavors. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and find your own unique twist. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Pair this with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beer to complete the experience.