Ripe Tomato Stew

Background

The ripe tomato stew has been a staple dish in many cultures for centuries. Originating from the sun-drenched Mediterranean regions, the simple combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh ingredients creates a stew that is both hearty and refreshing. Traditionally, this dish is enjoyed during the late summer months when tomatoes are at their ripest and most flavorful.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes - 8 ripe
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 large
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Bell pepper - 2, any color
• Carrot - 2 medium
• Celery - 2 stalks
• Basil - 1/4 cup fresh
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon dried
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Vegetable stock - 2 cups
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Parmesan cheese - grated, for serving
• Crusty bread - for serving

Preparation

Begin by finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Dice the carrots and celery stalks, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Chop the bell peppers, removing seeds and stems. For the tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for approximately 1-2 minutes until the skins begin to peel away. Transfer them to an ice bath to cool, then peel off the skins and chop the tomatoes.

Cooking Process

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it doesn't brown. Stir in the carrot, celery, and bell peppers, and cook until they begin to soften.

Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the other vegetables. Pour in the vegetable stock, and season with salt, black pepper, basil, and oregano. If the tomatoes are overly acidic, stir in the optional sugar to balance the flavors.

Simmer the stew uncovered on a low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and the flavors have melded together. If the stew becomes too thick, add a bit more vegetable stock or water. For cooking timer purposes, check every 15 minutes to stir and ensure the stew doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.

How to Enjoy

Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Ladle the stew into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the stew's rich and savory juices. This tomato stew is perfect for any meal and pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a glass of your favorite wine. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the warmth of this comforting dish on a cool evening.