Maryland Caramel Tomatoes

Elevate your culinary repertoire with the unique and captivating flavors of Maryland Caramel Tomatoes, a dish that artfully blends sweet and savory in a single bite. Featuring velvety heirloom tomatoes bathed in a rich caramel sauce made from granulated sugar, butter, and a tangy touch of balsamic vinegar, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional tomato preparations. A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal finish, while the caramel’s subtle hints of sea salt and black pepper create an irresistible balance. Ready in just 25 minutes, these caramel-coated tomatoes are perfect as a sophisticated side dish or a standout appetizer. Pair them with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce and impress your guests with this easy yet elegant recipe.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large fresh heirloom tomatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Step 1

1. Wash and core the heirloom tomatoes, slicing them in half horizontally. Set aside.

Step 2

2. In a large skillet, combine the granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and begins to bubble.

Step 3

3. Allow the sugar mixture to cook without stirring for 3-5 minutes, or until it turns a deep amber color. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 4

4. Lower the heat and quickly add the unsalted butter, stirring until melted and combined with the caramel.

Step 5

5. Add balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and ground black pepper to the caramel mixture, stirring to combine.

Step 6

6. Place the tomato halves, cut side down, into the skillet. Spoon some of the caramel mixture over the tops and allow to cook for 5-7 minutes on medium-low heat. The tomatoes should soften but retain their shape.

Step 7

7. Carefully flip the tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to coat the other side in caramel.

Step 8

8. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the caramel-coated tomatoes.

Step 9

9. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer. Optionally, pair with crusty bread to soak up the caramel sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1071.8 grams (1071.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1121

Total Fat 25.60g	33%
Saturated Fat 14.00g	70%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 1211mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 233.50g	85%
Dietary Fiber 9.80g	35%
Total Sugars 222.40g
Protein 7.50g	15%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 97mg	7%
Iron 3mg	15%
Potassium 1935mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.3%

Protein: 2.5%

Carbs: 78.2%