You can definitely eat sun-dried tomatoes on their own! They are packed with flavor and have a unique, concentrated taste that is both sweet and tangy. Sun-drying tomatoes is a traditional method of preserving them, which intensifies their flavor and gives them a chewy texture.
When you open a jar of sun-dried tomatoes stored in olive oil, you'll notice that they are already pliable and ready to eat. They have been rehydrated during the drying process, so they are not completely dry like raisins or other dried fruits. This means you can enjoy them straight out of the jar without any additional preparation.
Personally, I love snacking on sun-dried tomatoes as they are. Their rich, savory flavor makes them a perfect addition to a cheese and charcuterie board. You can also toss them into a salad, pasta dish, or grain bowl for an extra burst of flavor. Their chewy texture adds a delightful contrast to softer ingredients.
If you prefer a softer and more plump texture, you can rehydrate the sun-dried tomatoes by soaking them in hot water for about 20 minutes. This will help to plump them up and make them juicier. After soaking, simply drain the tomatoes and they are ready to be used in your favorite recipes.
Another way to enjoy sun-dried tomatoes is to incorporate them into cooking. They can be added to sauces, soups, stews, and even baked goods like bread or focaccia. The possibilities are endless!
One of my favorite ways to use sun-dried tomatoes is in a creamy pasta sauce. I sauté some garlic and onions in olive oil, then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with some of their oil from the jar. I let this mixture cook for a few minutes to release the flavors, then add cream or coconut milk to create a luscious sauce. Tossed with cooked pasta, this dish becomes a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Sun-dried tomatoes are absolutely delicious on their own and can be enjoyed straight out of the jar. Whether you prefer them as a snack or incorporate them into your cooking, their intense flavor and chewy texture make them a versatile ingredient that adds a burst of taste to any dish. So go ahead, indulge in the wonderful world of sun-dried tomatoes!