Scalloped Tomatoes Recipe

Scalloped Tomatoes Recipe

History:
Scalloped Tomatoes is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. While it's difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of this recipe, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th or early 20th century. As canned tomatoes became more readily available, home cooks began experimenting with different ways to prepare them, leading to the creation of Scalloped Tomatoes.

Fun Facts:
- Scalloped Tomatoes is a great way to use up leftover or excess tomatoes.
- This dish is often enjoyed as a side dish, but it can also be served as a light and delicious main course.
- The word "scalloped" refers to the layered presentation of the dish, mimicking the shape of scallop shells.
- While the traditional recipe calls for using rolled crackers, you can also use breadcrumbs or even crumbled cornbread for added texture and flavor.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Scalloped Tomatoes:

Ingredients:
- 1 quart of tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Onion juice, to taste
- Rolled crackers (or breadcrumbs or crumbled cornbread)
- Butter, for dotting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

2. Drain off part of the juice from one quart of tomatoes. This can be done by using a colander or mesh strainer to separate the tomatoes from the excess liquid.

3. Season the tomatoes with salt, pepper, and onion juice. The amounts can vary based on your personal preference, so feel free to adjust accordingly.

4. Cover the bottom of the greased baking dish with a layer of rolled crackers. Alternatively, you can use breadcrumbs or crumbled cornbread for this layer.

5. Dot the layer of crackers with small dabs of butter. This will add richness and flavor to the dish.

6. Spread a layer of seasoned tomatoes over the crackers. Ensure that the tomatoes are evenly distributed to create a flavorful bite.

7. Repeat steps 4 to 6, creating layers of crackers, butter, and tomatoes until you've used up all the ingredients. The final layer should consist of crumbs, so that it will cover the top of the dish.

8. If using fresh tomatoes, bake the dish for approximately one hour. If using canned tomatoes, reduce the baking time to about 30 minutes. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the dish, so insert a toothpick or fork into the center to ensure it's cooked through.

9. If you notice that the crumbs on top are browning too quickly, cover the dish with a tin plate or foil to prevent further browning.

10. Once the Scalloped Tomatoes are golden brown and bubbling, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Scalloped Tomatoes as a delicious side dish or a light main course!

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Tomato Casserole: This dish is similar to Scalloped Tomatoes but often includes additional ingredients like cheese, herbs, or other vegetables.
- Tomato Gratin: A more decadent version of Scalloped Tomatoes, Tomato Gratin is topped with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden and crispy.
- Tomato Pie: This recipe takes Scalloped Tomatoes to the next level by encasing the tomatoes in a buttery pastry crust.
- Baked Tomatoes: For a simpler preparation, try baking tomatoes with herbs, spices, and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a delicious and easy side dish.

Enjoy exploring the world of tomato-based recipes and discovering new ways to use this versatile fruit in your cooking!