Stove Top Smoker Smoky Tomatoes

The scent of smoked tomatoes takes me back to my grandmother’s garden in late summer. Rows of plump, sun-ripened plum tomatoes, almost bursting with flavor, would fill her backyard. She’d always smoke a batch, using cherry wood chips in her old charcoal smoker, until they were just kissed with smoky goodness. We’d eat them right off the vine, the sweet, smoky juice dripping down our chins. It was a taste of sunshine and simple pleasures, a memory I cherish every time I smell that distinctive, inviting smoke. Now, with this stove-top smoker method, I can recreate that magic no matter where I am.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 4 cups plum tomatoes
• Red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon maple wood chips

Equipment Needed

• Stove top smoker
• Smoker rack

Instructions

1. Begin by prepping your tomatoes. Cut the plum tomatoes in half lengthwise. This exposes the fleshy interior and allows the smoky flavor to penetrate deeply.

2. Arrange the halved tomatoes, cut side up, on the smoker rack. Make sure they’re spaced evenly to allow for proper smoke circulation.

3. Season generously. Sprinkle the exposed cut surface of each tomato half with a splash of red wine vinegar. This adds a subtle tang that complements the smoky notes. Follow with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.

4. Prepare your stove top smoker. Place the maple wood chips in the base of the smoker. Maple wood imparts a mild, sweet smoke that pairs exceptionally well with tomatoes.

5. Place the smoker rack with the seasoned tomatoes into the smoker. Seal the smoker lid tightly to trap the smoke.

6. Heat the smoker over medium-low heat. The key here is to maintain a gentle smoking temperature, allowing the tomatoes to slowly absorb the smoky flavor without becoming overly cooked. Smoke for exactly 12 minutes.

7. After the initial smoking period, remove the smoker from the heat source. Crucially, do not open the lid! Leave the lid closed for an additional 3 minutes. This allows the residual heat and smoke to further infuse the tomatoes, ensuring a deeper, more consistent flavor profile.

8. Carefully open the smoker, allowing any remaining smoke to dissipate. Transfer the smoked tomatoes to a plate and let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Wood Chip Alternatives: While maple wood chips offer a sweet, gentle smokiness, you can experiment with other woods to create different flavor profiles. Try apple wood for a fruitier smoke, hickory for a bolder flavor, or alder for a delicate, slightly sweet smoke.
• Tomato Selection: Opt for ripe, firm plum tomatoes for the best results. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft or bruised. Heirloom varieties can also be used, adding unique flavors and colors to the finished dish.
• Smoke Intensity: Adjust the smoking time to achieve your desired level of smokiness. For a more intense flavor, smoke for a few minutes longer, keeping a close eye to prevent overcooking.
• Flavor Enhancement: Before smoking, consider lightly brushing the cut surfaces of the tomatoes with olive oil or adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or oregano.
• Pre-Salting: Lightly salting the tomatoes about 15 minutes before smoking can help draw out excess moisture, concentrating their flavor and preventing them from becoming soggy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These smoky tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm or at room temperature as an appetizer, side dish, or topping for grilled meats or fish. They’re fantastic in salads, pasta dishes, or as a bruschetta topping.

• Serving Suggestions: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a tangy contrast to the smoky sweetness.
• Storage: Store leftover smoked tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave. They can also be added directly to hot dishes like pasta or sauces.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the smoked tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before using. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, so they are best used in cooked dishes after thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	22 kcal	1%
Total Fat	0.2 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	6 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	4.7 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1.4 g	5%
Sugars	3.2 g	12%
Protein	1.1 g	2%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the tomatoes before smoking for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Infusion: Roast a head of garlic and rub the softened cloves over the cut sides of the tomatoes before smoking. The garlic will caramelize and impart a rich, savory flavor.
• Herbed Version: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano with olive oil and brush over the tomatoes before smoking.
• Sweet and Tangy: Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
• Different Tomatoes: While plum tomatoes are ideal, you can also use other varieties such as Roma or cherry tomatoes, adjusting the smoking time accordingly. Cherry tomatoes will require less time.
• Smoked Tomato Paste: Smoke a large batch of tomatoes and then blend them into a smoky tomato paste. Use this paste to add depth and flavor to sauces, soups, and stews.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a regular grill instead of a stove top smoker?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a grill. Create a smoking environment by placing wood chips in a smoker box or foil pouch directly over the heat source. Keep the grill temperature low and maintain indirect heat.

Q: What if I don’t have maple wood chips?
A: You can substitute with other wood chips like apple, hickory, or alder, or a blend of woods. Each type will impart a slightly different flavor.

Q: How do I know when the tomatoes are done?
A: The tomatoes are done when they have softened slightly and are infused with a smoky aroma. Avoid over-smoking, which can make them bitter.

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about half the amount of fresh herbs, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

Q: Are these tomatoes suitable for making salsa?
A: Absolutely! Smoked tomatoes add a unique smoky flavor to salsa. Simply chop them and combine with your favorite salsa ingredients like onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give these stove-top smoked tomatoes a try. They are surprisingly easy to make, and the smoky flavor transforms ordinary tomatoes into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer, a gourmet pizza topping, or the base for a smoky salsa, these tomatoes are sure to impress. Experiment with different wood chips and seasonings to create your own unique variations, and don’t be afraid to share your creations with friends and family. Bon appétit!