Candied Tomatoes Recipe: Sweet and Tangy Side Dish

I’m excited to share my candied tomatoes recipe that transforms fresh tomatoes into a sweet and tangy side dish. 🔥 This versatile condiment is perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or salads, and adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

By slow-cooking the tomatoes in a sugar and spice mixture, you’ll achieve a tender, caramelized texture that’s simply irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can elevate your dishes and add a touch of elegance to your table.

Ingredients for Candied Tomatoes

Simple ingredients come together to create these sweet and tangy candied tomatoes.

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For the best results, use firm, ripe cherry tomatoes—they hold their shape better during cooking. You can find them at most grocery stores or farmers’ markets during the summer months. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work too. I like to use a mix of red and yellow for a colorful effect.

No apple cider vinegar? White wine vinegar or balsamic (reduce sugar slightly) works as a substitute. For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. If using cinnamon sticks, be sure to remove them before storing. You can also customize the spice level to your liking.

These candied tomatoes keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They reheat beautifully—just microwave or simmer gently. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before using.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Candied Tomatoes

Let’s create these sweet and tangy candied tomatoes together – a perfect side dish for any meal.

👨‍🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes

Start by washing and drying 1 lb Cherry Tomatoes. I like to use a mix of colors for visual appeal. Halve them evenly so they cook consistently. In a bowl, toss the tomatoes with 2 tbsp Olive Oil until they’re evenly coated. This helps them roast more evenly and brings out their natural sweetness.

Spread the oiled tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. You might need to use two sheets depending on their size. Roast in a preheated oven at 275°F for 20-25 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. Keep an eye on them – you want them tender but still holding their shape.

🍳 Step 2: Create the Candying Syrup

While the tomatoes roast, prepare the candying syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup Granulated Sugar, 0.25 cup Brown Sugar, 0.25 cup Apple Cider Vinegar, 0.5 cup Water, 1 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. If you’re using the optional 2 whole Cinnamon Sticks and 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme, add them now for extra depth of flavor.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool slightly – it will continue to thicken as it cools.

🥘 Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Syrup

Once the tomatoes have roasted and the syrup is ready, carefully transfer the tomatoes to the syrup saucepan. The mixture will bubble vigorously when you add the hot tomatoes, so be careful. If you’re using cinnamon sticks and thyme, you can remove them now or leave them in for stronger flavor.

Return the saucepan to medium heat and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the tomatoes are coated in the thick, syrupy glaze and the liquid has reduced significantly. You’ll see the mixture transform into a rich, jammy consistency that clings to the tomatoes.

⏰ Step 4: Cool and Store

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the candied tomatoes cool completely in the syrup. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to absorb the sweetness. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container, making sure they’re fully submerged in the syrup.

Store the candied tomatoes in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They’ll keep getting better with age as the flavors meld. To serve, you can enjoy them chilled or bring them to room temperature. They’re perfect as a side dish, on crackers, or as a topping for grilled meats or cheeses.

Dietary Considerations for This Dish

Gluten-Free and Keto Friendly

These candied tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. The recipe uses granulated sugar and brown sugar, which are gluten-free. When serving, be mindful of any accompanying dishes that may contain gluten. For keto diets, you can adjust the sugar content or use sugar substitutes to make it more keto-friendly. 🔥

Vegan Considerations

This recipe is vegan-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal products. The olive oil used for coating the tomatoes is vegan, and the sugar used is typically vegan (though some sugar brands may use bone char, so choose a vegan-certified sugar if that’s a concern). Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

Low-Sodium Adaptation

For those watching their sodium intake, you can reduce the 1 tsp salt to 1/2 tsp or even omit it altogether. The apple cider vinegar and thyme will still provide plenty of flavor. Be aware that some store-bought vinegars may contain added salt, so check the labels.

Dietary Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe sugar-free, you can experiment with erythritol or stevia as alternatives to granulated sugar. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor and texture slightly. For a less sweet version, reduce the granulated sugar to 1/2 cup. You can also try using honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile, though this will change the character of the dish.

Storage and Reheating

These candied tomatoes store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can be served chilled or at room temperature. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat or microwave briefly. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize or the tomatoes to become mushy. Enjoy them as a side dish or use as a topping for various meals.

Allergen Information

This recipe is free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, and shellfish. However, if you’re using any store-bought ingredients like vinegar or sugar, always check the labels for potential allergens or cross-contamination warnings. The recipe is also prepared without any major allergens, making it suitable for various dietary needs.