8 Best Substitutes for Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Need a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes? No worries, I’ve compiled a list of the eight best alternatives to help you in any situation!
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Finding a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s happened to all of us: you’re cooking and suddenly realize you’re missing an ingredient like sun-dried tomatoes, or maybe they were just too pricey. But don’t worry! There are plenty of great alternatives. To make things easier, I’ve put together eight simple options that still deliver the rich flavor you want. Keep reading to select the best alternative for your dish!
Top Substitutes for Sun-Dried Tomatoes
1. Air Fryer Tomatoes
Air-fryer tomatoes are a quick, easy way to reduce water content and enhance fresh tomato flavor. In about ten minutes, you’ll have tomatoes with a robust, intensified taste that can substitute for sun-dried tomatoes in many recipes. I recommend using air-fried tomatoes in tomato sauces to intensify the flavor.
2. Tomato Paste
While not an exact match, tomato paste is an alternative with an intense flavor profile and umami. The texture is smooth rather than chewy. Tomato paste works best as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes in sauces but not on sandwiches.
3. Tomato Puree
Tomato puree is excellent for pasta, soups, and stews. It is perfect for recipes that require a dense, tomatoey liquid. It can have a strong tomato flavor similar to sun-dried tomatoes. Air fry the tomatoes before puréeing for a more intense flavor.
4. Fresh Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes are an excellent substitute for sun-dried tomatoes in salads and sandwiches because they offer a great balance of flavor and make the recipe delicious. I think fresh ingredients are the best replacement!
5. Tamarind Paste
For Asian stir-fries, the best dried tomato substitute is tamarind paste. It has a sweet-and-sour flavor. However, be careful with the amount you add; tamarind paste has a strong sour taste. Start with a small amount and taste before adding more. I like to start with a 1/4 teaspoon.
6. Homemade Sun-Dried Tomatoes
If you love sun-dried tomatoes and want to make them yourself, try this. Purchase sweet, fresh cherry or grape tomatoes. Slice the tomatoes in half, then remove the inner water and seeds. Place them on a baking tray and oven-bake at 140 degrees for 2-4 hours.
Handy Tip: Prepare Ahead!
This slow method takes time, and because each tomato and oven can vary, I recommend staying close and checking on the tomatoes often. It is incredible how quickly the tomatoes can go from perfect to burned.
7. Roasted Bell Peppers
Roasted bell peppers work great as a replacement for sun-dried tomatoes. Their slightly charred, mildly sweet flavor adds depth and a great finishing touch. You can easily find them jarred at the grocery store, or make them yourself on a gas stovetop or in a dehydrator.
Beyond salads, roasted peppers work well in pasta dishes, as pizza toppings, with antipasto, or on bruschetta.
8. Pecans
Pecans are a seemingly untraditional substitute for sun-dried tomatoes, but they are a solid option. They offer a similar flavor and add a nutty texture. You can use a 1:1 substitution by replacing one cup of diced sun-dried tomatoes with pecans.
