Sun Drying Tomatoes
Sorry if this seems obvious, but is there a method to making your own sun-dried tomatoes or is it really as simple as leaving them out in the sun? How long should it take to reach the proper "dryness"? Once dried what is the best way to store? Any spices that can be added to complement the flavor?
Best Answer
There are three common ways to make sundried tomatoes:
Sun - This can take days. Use a cheesecloth to keep the bugs out. Weather is obviously a huge dependency here.
Dehydrator - Probably the most efficient method, but not everyone has a dehydrator.
Oven - Use a cookie sheet and set the oven to 140-150F. This could be tricky depending upon the oven. You might have to use the pilot light or prop the door open slightly. This should take about 8 hours.
I usually store them in light olive oil once made. I've found light oil makes a huge difference because extra virgin tends to have a much stronger flavor.
Pictures about "Sun Drying Tomatoes"
How long does it take to dry tomatoes in the sun?
Simply slice tomatoes in half, place on a raised screen, lightly sprinkle with salt and place in the hot sun until dry. Depending on your weather conditions, this could take anywhere from four days to two weeks.Is it safe to dry tomatoes in the sun?
Sun drying of tomatoes gives an added nuance to their flavor, but it isn't a recommended preservation technique unless you are in a high heat, low humidity area. If the tomatoes take too long to dry, they will mold and the exposure outside will increase the chance of bacteria.How do I sun dry my own tomatoes?
Drying tomatoes in the sun is something people have been doing it for centuries. Simply cut the tomatoes in half, place them on a raised screen on some blocks (for circulation), sprinkle lightly with sea salt and place them directly in the hot sun to dry.Do sun-dried tomatoes have to be dried in the sun?
Using the sun is the classic way to dry tomatoes like they once did on the rooftops of southern Italy. It's a longer drying process, taking a minimum of several days. There's less control over their environment: direct sun, high heat, and low humidity are necessary to get them just right.More answers regarding sun Drying Tomatoes
Answer 2
I sun dry things by putting them in the back of my car by the rear window during the day. The heat is intensified by the car and the fact that it's inside of something keeps bugs away.
Place tomatoes on a cookie sheet, sprinkle lightly with salt, and dry.
Answer 3
I have tried sun drying tomatoes with no success. It is just too humid where I live and the bugs or mold will get them before they dry.
I just slice My tomatoes in half and dry them in the dehydrator and that works very well.
If you live somewhere dry like Utah or Arizona you could just leave the tomatoes in the sun (protected from dust and bugs) and they will be zombified in short order.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Pixabay, Johannes Plenio, Kaique Rocha, Tim Eiden