You can use tomatoes many different ways!
Clinging to pasta with roasted garlic or classic tomato sauce on hot chips.
Whatever the cooking methods or process, the flavor of tomatoes is enjoyed by billions.
But you want to know how to smoke tomatoes?
Today we are smoking tomatoes to give a new depth of flavor.
Table of contents
The Glorious Tomato
We all should know what a tomato is!
We each ate 19 pounds of this tangy commodity in 2021.
Cherry tomatoes, plum tomatoes, or those special ones from Roma.
The average water content of a tomato is around 90% so today I want to take advantage of this by slowly evaporating with smoke for a concentrated smoky flavor.
Fun Fact: There are over 10,000 varieties of these (technically) red fruit!
Why Is Smoking Our Prefered Method of Cooking?
So why are we smoking?
- It adds a depth of smoky flavor and undertones from nutty to meaty
- Creates an entirely new product that complements other food and flavors
- Can be a way of cooking or preserving
What You Need for Smoked Tomatoes
- 1 per serve a choice of tomatoes to smoke (we used beefsteak tomatoes)
- Black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Olive Oil
Equipment Needed to Smoke Tomatoes
- Pellet smoker (we have a Traeger grill)
- Wood chips (we used apple wood chips)
- Sharp knife
- Aluminum foil containers
At What Temperature Should I Smoke Tomatoes?
To smoke tomatoes set the temperature to 250F°.
Do not put the tomatoes directly on the grill and avoid any hot spots and direct heat when cooking.
How Long Should I Smoke Tomatoes?
It takes 30-40 minutes to smoke tomatoes.
When Do I Know My Smoked Tomatoes Are Done?
The smoked tomatoes are ready when they have shrunk by around 50% and easily broken apart with a fork or your fingers when cooled.
How to Use Smoked Tomatoes?
Smoked tomatoes are delicious in pasta sauce. Or you can use them for a side with;
Smoked Oysters – chop up the tomatoes and top your oysters with them
Preparing & Smoking the Tomatoes
– Add the wood pellets to the hopper of your smoker, prime, and set the temperature to 250F.
– Take your tomatoes, cut them in half, and remove the skin. Brush them with olive oil.
– Once your grill is up to temperature, place in the foil containing tomatoes and close the lid.
– Check every 15 minutes until smoked.
– When finished, leave to cool for at least 60 minutes.
Smoked Tomatoes
Equipment
- Pellet smoker (we have a Traeger grill)
- Wood chips (we used apple wood chips)
- Sharp knife
- Aluminum foil containers
Ingredients
- 1 per serve a choice of tomatoes to smoke we used beefsteak tomatoes
- Black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Olive Oil
Instructions
- Add the wood pellets to the hopper of your smoker, prime, and set the temperature to 250F.
- Take your tomatoes, cut them in half, and remove the skin. Brush them with olive oil.
- Once your grill is up to temperature, place in the foil containing tomatoes and close the lid.
- Check every 15 minutes until smoked.
- When finished, leave to cool for at least 60 minutes.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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