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Sun-Dried Tomato History

Italians dried tomatoes on their roofs

By Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, About.com

sun dried tomatoes

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

©Peggy Trowbridge
Normally, the thought of dried food does not bring to mind a gourmet meal. However, a relatively small amount of sun-dried tomatoes gives a gourmet touch and a burst of flavor to a variety of recipes.

Sun-dried tomato history

Before modern canning methods were available, Italians dried tomatoes on their tile roofs for use in winter when fresh tomatoes were not an option. Nowadays, sun-dried tomatoes (pomodori secchi in Italian) are not as popular in Italy as they are in America, where they are mostly relegated to antipasto or as a flavor-booster for sauce. These dried, concentrated vessels of flavor have enjoyed a popularity boost in the United States in the past couple of decades, initially as a gourmet item but fast becoming a favorite of home cooks.

More About Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Homemade Sun-Dried Tomatoes Basic Recipe
Should sun-dried tomatoes be seeded?
Sun-Dried Tomatoes Cooking Tips and Hints
Sun-Dried Tomato Selection and Storage
Sun-Dried Tomato History
Sun-Dried Tomato Recipes
Photo © 2006 Peggy Trowbridge, licensed to About.com, Inc.

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