This past weekend marked a significant leap for me: I officially enrolled in Foodbuzz’s Project Food Blog contest. This isn’t just any competition; it’s an expansive culinary challenge, promising incredible exposure and a substantial cash prize. With each round, hundreds of participants will face elimination, making it an intense battle of culinary creativity and blogging prowess.

Allow me to share a little secret about myself: I harbor a deeply competitive spirit, coupled with an unwavering pursuit of perfection. My usual modus operandi involves entering competitions only when I’m confident of victory. It’s a rather calculated, if not entirely mature, strategy, isn’t it? Which is precisely why this venture represents such a profound departure from my norm. Project Food Blog boasts an astonishing array of food blogging talent, and honestly, I have no clear sense of where I stand amidst such a formidable crowd. It’s far more intimidating than a high-stakes Boggle game with my grandmother! Yet, for perhaps the first time, my customary apprehension doesn’t entirely define my participation.

Don’t misunderstand me; that competitive fire is absolutely blazing. I am intensely invested in this. However, a far more compelling motivation drives me: I am on a dedicated mission to evolve into a superior blogger for each and every one of you, my cherished readers. Your engagement, your comments, and your enthusiasm are what transform blogging from a solitary pursuit into an incredibly joyous and fulfilling experience. It’s for you that I’m diving headfirst into this exhilarating challenge.

This particular post serves as my inaugural submission for the competition. The first challenge, aptly titled “Ready, Set, Blog!”, mandates that I encapsulate the very essence of my identity as a food blogger within a single, coherent entry. I’ve noticed a distinct tendency within myself to become quite sentimental when discussing the deeply personal motivations that fuel my passion. But how could I not? After all, at its very core, my culinary world revolves around two powerful forces: food AND family!

Mark your calendars! On September 20th, Foodbuzz will open the contest for public voting. I’ll be sure to send out an update to all of you as soon as the polls go live, just in case you feel inclined to lend your valuable support to little old me. Phew. Thank you for embarking on this incredible journey with me.

“Love is the only cure for irritability, for irritability is only another manifestation of self-centeredness. And love that takes a man outside himself and centers the focus of his attention on the well-being of others is its only cure.”

– Granville Walker

The Unifying Principle: Food, Family, and the Enduring Power of Love

The first time I encountered Granville Walker’s profound words, a monumental, proverbial switch flipped in my mind. We’re talking about one of those mega life-changing epiphanies that fundamentally alters your perspective on almost everything. It was a revelation so powerful, it reshaped my understanding of the very foundations of joy, connection, and purpose.

In that moment of clarity, I realized that both food and family – the two pillars of my existence and the heart of this blog – are utterly reliant on the nourishing power of love to truly thrive. And when I speak of love, I’m not referring to a simplistic, saccharine vision of hearts, flowers, and constant goo-goo eyes. I mean the profound, authentic love that Granville Walker so eloquently described. It’s a love characterized by action, sacrifice, and an unwavering focus on the well-being of others.

It’s the love with arms that gently embraces a scared four-year-old climbing into bed in the quiet, early hours of the morning, seeking comfort from a nightmare. It’s the love with patient legs that tirelessly keeps you walking alongside, balancing a child’s bicycle until they find their own equilibrium, even as your back, arms, and neck ache with the effort. It’s the love with an unyielding spine that reminds you, when you’re firmly saying “absolutely not” to their mischievous attempts to bang on a yellow jacket nest with wooden swords, that your deepest desire is truly what’s best for them, ensuring their safety and guiding their growth.

And, crucially, it’s the love with hands that thoughtfully and carefully crafts the food, going far beyond mere sustenance, to nurture and sustain them all – body, mind, and spirit. This isn’t just about filling bellies; it’s about pouring intention, care, and connection into every dish. Every meal becomes an act of profound affection, a tangible expression of that deep, abiding love.

Indeed, I told you it was an epiphany – one that continues to shape my culinary philosophy and inform every post on this blog. It underscores the belief that cooking is not just a chore or a skill; it is a fundamental language of love, spoken daily in countless kitchens around the world.

Beyond Basic Sustenance: The Art and Soul of Food Preparation

Since you’ve found your way here to my corner of the internet, I’ll confidently assume that you, like me, view food as far more than a simple necessity. We both understand that the act of food preparation transcends the basic calculus of “calories in vs. calories out.” If it were merely about fuel, devoid of emotion, creativity, or artistry, we might all resemble Charlton Heston in ‘Soylent Green’ before his startling revelation. But food, for those of us who truly appreciate it, is a vibrant, multi-faceted tapestry woven with passion and purpose.

Food is a boundless creative outlet, allowing us to experiment with flavors, textures, and presentations. It’s a source of sensuous pleasure, engaging all our senses from the aroma that fills the kitchen to the satisfying taste on our palate. It can be a fascinating science experiment, exploring chemical reactions and molecular gastronomy. It’s a precise math formula, requiring careful measurements and proportions. It’s a captivating historic treatise, carrying the echoes of generations and ancient traditions. And undeniably, it’s a profound cultural study, reflecting the unique identities, celebrations, and daily lives of people across the globe. All of these elements are harmoniously rolled into one incredible experience.

Like it or not, the food we choose to make, and the way we prepare it, speaks volumes about who we are. It reveals our values, our priorities, and our deepest perspectives on life and love. Each ingredient chosen, each technique employed, and each meal shared contributes to a narrative about our care for ourselves and for those we feed. This is the philosophy that guides my kitchen and my writing, transforming every recipe into an opportunity to connect and express.

Crafting Culinary Excellence: Homemade “Sun”dried Tomatoes

In the culinary world, much as in life itself, the most exquisite results often stem from a thoughtful head-start, combined with a healthy dose of patience and genuine selflessness. Take sundried tomatoes, for instance. These intensely flavored gems have long been a beloved staple on the shelves of food lovers everywhere, coveted for their concentrated sweetness and savory depth. Yet, they frequently command a premium price, even for lower-quality versions that are sometimes artificially plumped with unnecessary and undesirable additives and preservatives.

The good news is that we can effortlessly create a far superior product right in our own homes. By using the simplest, freshest, and healthiest ingredients possible, we can achieve an unparalleled depth of flavor and texture, without sacrificing any of the convenience found in their store-bought counterparts. The added bonus? You’ll produce an incomparably better product for a significantly lower price tag, proving that a little effort can yield immense rewards.

The secret, as with all forms of food preservation, begins with selecting the absolute best produce you can either purchase or cultivate yourself. For this recipe, that means ripe, flavorful tomatoes. While there’s not much complicated preparation required for the tomatoes before they embark on their drying journey, the possibilities that unfold once they are fully dried are truly endless and exciting! Around my household, the most popular mode of consumption is delightfully simple: shaking a handful directly from the jar, popping them straight into the mouth, and savoring the chewy, concentrated burst of flavor. It’s an instant gratification that speaks to their deliciousness.

If that “country-cousin” approach feels a bit too rustic for your taste, fear not – we have an abundance of more refined options. Imagine serving a beautiful bowl full of these intensely flavored tomatoes, as is, alongside thin slices of aged cheese and crusty bread, making for an elegant finger food at any gathering. For culinary applications, a quick soak in warm water for about 30 minutes will rehydrate them beautifully (remember to save that precious, flavorful liquid to enrich your soups or stews!). Once rehydrated and drained, they are perfect for tucking into gourmet pizzas, layering into hearty sandwiches, or tossing through freshly cooked pasta for an explosion of umami. Alternatively, stir them into creamy polenta or a rich risotto to infuse every spoonful with vibrant, intense tomato flavor. In essence, these homemade gems can be used anywhere you would typically reach for their store-bought sundried tomato equivalent, elevating any dish they grace.

The Art of “Sun”drying Indoors: Overcoming Climatic Challenges

Living in my particular climate, relying solely on natural sunlight to dry tomatoes presents a rather precarious proposition at best. We simply don’t consistently experience enough prolonged hours of intense heat and low humidity required to fully accomplish the task before unwelcome mold decides to ruin our diligent efforts. This is precisely where creativity and culinary ingenuity come to the rescue, ensuring our bounty isn’t lost. While a dedicated food dehydrator certainly offers the most convenience and control, please do not allow its absence to deter you. Your standard household oven, with a little strategic adjustment, can perform this vital task admirably, transforming fresh tomatoes into delectable, concentrated flavor bombs.

Let me assure you, the modest investment of your time, effort, and love into this process is profoundly rewarding. The unparalleled taste and quality of these homemade “sun”dried tomatoes make every moment spent in their creation absolutely worthwhile. The depth of flavor, the satisfying chewiness, and the vibrant aroma are simply unmatched by anything you’ll find pre-packaged.

For those who prefer a photo-free, printer-friendly version of this detailed recipe, please click here!

Home “Sun”dried Tomatoes with Basil and Garlic: A Recipe for Love

Prepare to elevate your pantry and your dishes with these incredibly flavorful homemade “sun”dried tomatoes. Infused with fresh basil and aromatic garlic, they are a testament to simple ingredients yielding extraordinary results. This recipe emphasizes careful preparation to ensure perfect drying, whether you opt for a dehydrator or your standard oven.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes of any variety. Using a diverse blend of types will lend beautiful variations in color, shape, and subtle flavor notes to your finished product, making them visually appealing as well as delicious.
• 2 cloves of garlic, freshly peeled and finely minced. Fresh garlic is key for that potent, aromatic kick.
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, preferably a fragrant variety like Genovese, thoroughly washed and very thinly sliced (a technique also known as chiffonade, which ensures delicate strips of herb).
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt or sea salt. This not only seasons the tomatoes but also helps draw out moisture, aiding in the drying process.

Instructions:

Begin by meticulously washing your cherry tomatoes under cool running water. As you wash, carefully examine each tomato for any blemishes, soft spots, or signs of imperfection. Gently trim away any soft spots and remove any remaining stems. Next, halve all of your cherry tomatoes. For any particularly large cherry tomatoes, it’s best to quarter them to ensure all pieces are roughly the same size. Uniformity is paramount here, as consistently sized pieces will dry much more evenly, preventing some from becoming overly crisp while others remain too moist.

Arrange the halved (and quartered, if applicable) tomatoes cut-side up on a clean cutting board. Evenly sprinkle them with the Kosher or sea salt, the delicate chiffonaded basil, and the finely minced garlic. Using your fingertips, gently press the garlic and basil into the exposed flesh of the tomato halves. This ensures the flavors will deeply infuse into the tomatoes as they dry, creating a truly aromatic and delicious end product.

At this juncture, you’ll need to make a decision based on your available equipment. If you possess a food dehydrator, please proceed with the first set of instructions below. If you do not have a dehydrator, kindly follow the second set of instructions for drying your tomatoes using a conventional oven.

Dehydrator Instructions: Achieving Perfect Dryness with Ease

Carefully transfer the seasoned tomato halves, cut-side down, onto your dehydrator trays. It is crucial not to overcrowd the trays; ensure there is adequate space between each tomato piece to allow for proper air circulation. Overcrowding can significantly hinder the drying process and lead to uneven results or even mold development. Don’t be concerned if some garlic and basil dislodge from the tomatoes during this transfer; this is perfectly normal and expected. Once all your tomatoes have been arranged, gently scrape any remaining basil and garlic from the cutting board and distribute it evenly over the tomatoes on the dehydrator trays, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Set your dehydrator to approximately 135°F (if it features an adjustable thermostat). Dehydrate for a period ranging from 6 to 12 hours, or until the tomatoes are visibly very shriveled and reduced in size. The ideal consistency should be rather leathery, maintaining a slight pliability when warm. Crucially, when you use a fingernail to gently dig into their centers, there should be no discernible moisture whatsoever. This test is vital to confirm they are thoroughly dried and ready for storage. Once they reach this optimal stage, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container for storage. When stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, these delectable homemade “sun”dried tomatoes should remain delicious and safe for consumption for up to one year. For even longer freshness and flavor preservation, wrap them tightly in foil and then place them inside a resealable plastic bag; stored this way, they will remain wonderfully delicious for up to 18 months, ready to enhance countless meals.

Oven Dehydrating Instructions: A Convenient Alternative for Concentrated Flavor

Begin by preheating your oven to the lowest possible setting, ideally between 130-140°F. On many modern ovens, this temperature range corresponds to the “keep warm” setting. If your oven does not reach such a low temperature, you will need to utilize your very lowest available setting. To facilitate proper air circulation and moisture evaporation, prop the oven door open by approximately 3-4 inches. A simple wooden spoon or a folded heat-safe cloth can effectively hold the door ajar. Additionally, placing a small fan near the oven opening will significantly enhance air circulation, which is critical for efficient and even drying. With the door ajar and a fan assisting, you will need to monitor your tomatoes very carefully and reduce the overall cooking time, regularly checking for any signs of scorching to ensure the most even and successful results.

Line a baking sheet (or two, depending on the quantity of tomatoes you are drying and the size of your sheets) with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Carefully arrange the prepared tomatoes, cut-side down, on the lined baking sheets. Again, ensure they are not overcrowded, allowing sufficient space for air to circulate freely around each piece. Scrape any remaining basil and garlic from your cutting board and distribute it evenly over the tomatoes on the baking sheets, maximizing flavor. Dehydrate the tomatoes in the oven for approximately 6 to 12 hours, or until they are significantly shriveled and leathery to the touch. They should remain slightly pliable when warm but absolutely free of any moisture when tested by pressing a fingernail into their centers. This step is critical for successful long-term storage.

Once they have achieved the perfect dried consistency, turn off the oven and allow the tomatoes to cool completely to room temperature on the baking sheets. This cooling process helps them firm up further. Once fully cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. Stored in a cool, dry pantry or cupboard, these delicious homemade oven-dried tomatoes will maintain their quality for up to one year. For extended freshness, wrap them securely in foil and then place them inside a resealable plastic bag; this method will keep them wonderfully flavorful for up to 18 months, ready to be enjoyed in all your favorite recipes.

Embrace the Flavor: Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade “Sun”dried Tomatoes

Now that you’ve put in the love and effort to create these culinary marvels, it’s time to unleash their incredible flavor in your kitchen! While direct-from-the-jar snacking remains a highly recommended and satisfying experience, these homemade sun-dried tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate a multitude of dishes.

• Appetizers & Snacks: Serve them alongside a curated cheese board with crusty bread, olives, and charcuterie for an elegant starter. Chop them finely and mix into cream cheese or goat cheese for a delightful spread.
• Salads: Rehydrate and toss them into green salads, pasta salads, or grain bowls for bursts of intense tomato flavor. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal too!
• Pasta & Grains: The classic pairing! Rehydrate, chop, and add to your favorite pasta sauces, pesto, or simply toss with olive oil, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese for a quick, flavorful meal. Stir them into risotto, polenta, or couscous during cooking.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Layer them into paninis, grilled cheese, or any sandwich for an extra layer of savory depth. They pair wonderfully with mozzarella, feta, or even roasted chicken.
• Baking & Breads: Fold chopped, rehydrated tomatoes into focaccia dough, savory muffins, or homemade bread for an incredible aroma and taste.
• Eggs & Breakfast: Mix them into omelets, frittatas, or scrambled eggs for a gourmet breakfast experience.
• Marinades & Dressings: Infuse olive oil with a few pieces to create a flavorful dressing or marinade for vegetables and meats.

Don’t forget the flavorful soaking liquid from rehydrating your tomatoes! It’s packed with concentrated tomato essence and can be added to soups, stews, sauces, or even used as a base for cooking grains. Let your creativity guide you, and enjoy the rich, concentrated taste of summer all year round!

Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to share more culinary adventures with you. Stay tuned for updates on the Project Food Blog competition, and thank you for being an integral part of this amazing journey!