Green Tomato Stew with Peppers and Cream

This delightful dish features tender, green tomatoes simmered to perfection with a rich medley of spices and creamy textures. The combination of green tomatoes, bell peppers, and garlic creates a refreshingly unique flavor profile. The dish is further enriched with a splash of cream, accentuating the natural sweetness of the ingredients. A hint of lemon acid provides a subtle tang, perfectly balancing the robust flavors. This stew is easy to make and requires only 35 minutes from start to finish. Serve it as a comforting meal on its own, or pair it with boiled potatoes or pasta for a more substantial dish. This recipe encourages experimentation with flavors, allowing room for personal tastes and preferences. It's a perfect choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions, combining simple ingredients with gourmet flair. With its vibrant colors and aromatic appeal, this green tomato stew is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500g green, unripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, grated
• 1 whole garlic bulb, minced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 150ml sweet cream
• Salt, to taste
• A pinch of citric acid
• Fresh spring onions, chopped

Preparation Time

Total Time: 35 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes, Cook: 25 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced green tomatoes and sauté, adding a little water occasionally, for about 15 minutes until softened.
2. Once the tomatoes are almost dissolved, add the grated bell pepper and minced garlic.
3. Stir in salt, a pinch of citric acid, and sweet cream, mixing well to combine the flavors.
4. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. If you prefer, add a teaspoon of soy sauce to enhance the flavor, adjusting according to your taste preferences.
6. Shortly before taking the pan off the heat, add the bay leaves and let them infuse their aromatic essence into the stew.
7. Upon removing the pan from the heat, sprinkle the dish generously with freshly chopped spring onions.
8. Serve the stew hot alongside boiled potatoes or pasta for a complete meal experience.
9. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this delightful dish!

Tips

• **For a vegan version**, substitute sweet cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
• You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an added depth of flavor.
• Use different types of peppers to vary the taste and heat levels.

Variations

• **Spicy Version** - Add chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.
• **Chunky Style** - Leave bigger chunks of tomatoes for a heartier texture.
• **Herb Infusion** - Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a distinct flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this creamy stew.
• Complement the flavors with a light, white wine.

Best Places

• Chez Panisse - Known for its emphasis on organic ingredients and seasonal dishes, offering exquisite green tomato flavors. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
• The River Café - Famous for its Italian-inspired cuisine with fresh vegetable options. Location: Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London, UK.
• Blue Hill at Stone Barns - A farm-to-table restaurant offering inventive dishes emphasizing local produce. Location: 630 Bedford Rd, Tarrytown, USA.
• Noma - Renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Nordic ingredients, including green tomatoes. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 København, Denmark.
• Osteria Francescana - Offers inventive takes on classic Italian dishes with fresh, seasonal flavors. Location: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena, Italy.
• El Celler de Can Roca - Experience a blend of innovation and tradition with seasonal vegetables. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, 17007 Girona, Spain.
• Attica - Known for showcasing native Australian ingredients in creative dishes. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
• Geranium - A three-star Michelin restaurant focusing on plant-based dishes with stunning presentations. Location: Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, 8., 2100 København, Denmark.
• L'Arpège - Vegetarian dishes take center stage in this praised French restaurant. Location: 84 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France.
• Gaggan - Celebrated for its modern interpretation of traditional Indian dishes with a playful twist. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.