Homemade Hunt 100 Natural Stewed Tomatoes Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: Sauce

Introduction

Hunt's 100 Natural Stewed Tomatoes have been a pantry staple for many home cooks for decades. Known for their rich flavor and versatility, these stewed tomatoes are a fundamental ingredient in countless recipes, from soups and stews to pasta sauces and casseroles. The brand's commitment to using 100% natural ingredients without any high-fructose corn syrup has made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. However, even with its natural appeal, many are eager to create a homemade version that allows for customization, improved nutrition, and cost-effectiveness. Imagine having control over the sugar content, the type of tomatoes used, and the added seasonings, all while achieving that signature Hunt's flavor. This recipe not only mimics the original but enhances it by reducing the sugar content, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own stewed tomatoes at home offers several advantages. First and foremost, you can significantly reduce the sugar content, which is a major plus for those monitoring their sugar intake. Additionally, using fresh, high-quality tomatoes ensures a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Customization is another key benefit; you can tweak the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, whether that means adding a bit more onion for depth or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Plus, homemade versions are often more cost-effective, especially if you take advantage of seasonal tomato sales or use homegrown produce.

Personal Anecdote

I remember my grandmother always having a jar of Hunt's Stewed Tomatoes in her pantry. She used them in everything from her famous three-bean salad to her hearty vegetable soup. One summer, when I was helping her in the kitchen, I asked why she didn't just use fresh tomatoes. She smiled and said, "Honey, sometimes convenience and consistency are worth it." But as I grew older and became more conscious of what I eat, I wanted to capture that same consistency and flavor without the added sugars. That's when I decided to create my own version. After several trials and taste tests, I nailed down a recipe that not only tastes just like Hunt's but is healthier and customizable. Now, every time I open a jar of my homemade stewed tomatoes, I'm reminded of those days in the kitchen with my grandma, but with the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into my food.

Recipe Details

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Yield:

4 cups (about 2 jars)

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients:

• 4 lbs (1.8 kg) ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped (or 2 cans of 14.5 oz (410g) crushed tomatoes)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60g) organic cane sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp (30g) fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the tomatoes for about 30 seconds, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Peel the tomatoes, then chop them coarsely. If using canned tomatoes, skip this step.

• Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavor.

• Combine Tomatoes and Spices: Add the chopped (or canned) tomatoes, organic cane sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

• Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The tomatoes will break down, and the mixture will thicken into a rich, stewed consistency.

• Finish with Fresh Basil: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If using fresh basil, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve its flavor and aroma.

• Jar and Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the stewed tomatoes cool slightly before transferring them to airtight jars. Store in the refrigerator.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the cane sugar to 2 tablespoons (30g) or even less, depending on your taste. You can also substitute with a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia, adjusting to taste.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp (2g) or add diced jalapeños during the simmering process for an extra kick.
• Smoky Version: Add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid smoke to give the tomatoes a deeper, smokier flavor reminiscent of slow-cooked BBQ.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add 1/4 cup (30g) of chopped olives and 1/4 cup (15g) of fresh parsley for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

Pro Tips

• Layered Flavor: For a more complex flavor profile, roast the tomatoes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes before stewing them. This step caramelizes the natural sugars in the tomatoes, enhancing their sweetness and depth.

• Acidity Balance: The apple cider vinegar not only adds tanginess but also helps maintain the brightness of the tomatoes. Adjust the amount based on how tangy you like your stewed tomatoes.

• Texture Control: For a smoother consistency, blend a portion of the stewed tomatoes with an immersion blender or a regular blender. This creates a texture similar to the store-bought version without losing the homemade charm.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will give a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to peel and chop them before stewing.

• What can I do if the recipe turns out too sweet or too salty?
  Taste and adjust as you go. If too sweet, add a splash of vinegar. If too salty, add a bit more water or tomatoes.

• How do I make it last longer?
  Store in airtight jars in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Yes, simply multiply the ingredients. For larger batches, consider canning using a water bath for long-term preservation.

• What if I don't have fresh basil?
  You can omit it or substitute with a pinch of dried basil. The fresh basil adds a bright note, but the recipe still works without it.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Uses: Use as a base for homemade pasta sauce, a topping for baked potatoes, or an ingredient in chili and stews.
• Creative Applications: Mix into scrambled eggs for a tomato-packed breakfast, use as a dip for crusty bread, or blend into a fresh salsa.
• Marinades and BBQ: Incorporate into marinades for grilled meats or as a tangy addition to BBQ sauces.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Hunt's 100 Natural Stewed Tomatoes captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier, customizable alternative. With reduced sugar, fresh ingredients, and the ability to tweak flavors to your liking, this recipe is a game-changer for any home cook. Whether you're looking to elevate your family's favorite dishes or simply want more control over what you eat, this recipe delivers. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something truly special right in your own kitchen. Share your creations and let me know how it turns out—I'd love to hear your story!