Tomatoes Go to Waste: Turn Them into Flavorful Tomato Powder!

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly. Remove the stems and any blemishes.

Slice the tomatoes in half (or quarters, depending on their size) and remove the seeds, if desired. You can also skip this step if you like to keep the seeds in the powder for a bit more texture.

Dry the Tomatoes:

Using a Dehydrator: If you have a food dehydrator, place the tomato slices in a single layer on the trays. Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and dehydrate for 8-12 hours or until completely dry and brittle.

Using the Oven: Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature, around 150°F (65°C). Place the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 6-8 hours, checking periodically, until the tomatoes are completely dried out. You want them to be crisp and not soft or chewy.

Blend into Powder:

Once your tomatoes are fully dried, allow them to cool. Then, place the dried tomatoes in a blender, food processor, or spice grinder. Blend until the tomatoes form a fine powder. This may take a few pulses depending on the texture of the dried tomatoes.

Store the Tomato Powder:

Store the tomato powder in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or vacuum-sealed bag. Keep it in a cool, dark place to preserve the flavor. Properly dried and stored, tomato powder can last for up to a year.

Serving and Storage Tips: