Pan con Tomate (Tomato Bread) Recipe
Pan con Tomate (Tomato Bread) Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 slices of rustic bread (250g / 8.8 oz)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (approximately 300g / 10.5 oz)
- 60ml (4 tbsp) high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- Optional: freshly ground black pepper
Welcome to the rustic and flavorsome world of Pan con Tomate, a traditional Spanish tapas staple that showcases the beauty of simplicity. This dish, rooted deeply in the culinary traditions of Catalonia, brings together the earthy essence of tomatoes with the comforting crunch of toasted bread, all enlivened by a drizzle of quality olive oil. It is a celebration of elemental flavors, proving that sometimes the most profound tastes come from the fewest ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, a light lunch, or as part of a wider tapas spread, Pan con Tomate is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched terraces of Spain.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Bread Knife
- Grater
- Pastry Brush
- Toaster or Grilling Pan
- Small Mixing Bowl
Cooking Time: Total estimated time: 15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by slicing the rustic bread into thick, manageable pieces suitable for toasting. For optimal flavor, choose a bread with a firm crust and open crumb structure, such as ciabatta or a country loaf.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Using a toaster or a hot grilling pan on medium-high heat, toast the bread slices until they become golden and crispy. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Flip halfway to ensure both sides are evenly toasted.
Step 3: Grate the Tomatoes
While the bread is toasting, wash and halve the tomatoes. Grate them into a bowl using the large holes of a box grater, discarding the skins. You should end up with a fresh, pulpy tomato mixture. Season with salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic
Take the peeled garlic cloves and slice one end to expose the flesh. Once the bread is toasted, rub the garlic clove directly onto the warm bread slices. The heat will mellow the garlic’s pungency, making it aromatic without being overpowering.
Step 5: Assemble the Pan con Tomate
With the bread adequately infused with garlic, generously spoon the grated tomato mixture over each slice. Use a pastry brush to drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top. Finish by seasoning with additional sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while the bread is warm. Pan con Tomate is best enjoyed fresh, as the vibrant notes of the tomatoes will shine through, offering a delightful explosion of flavor with every bite.
Conclusion: There you have it, an authentic Pan con Tomate, capturing the essence of Spanish cuisine in its most elemental form. This dish beautifully juxtaposes textures and flavors, providing a unique taste experience each time. Whether served as a standalone snack or paired with other tapas dishes, it is destined to be a favorite. Relish in the simplicity and be reminded that great culinary pleasure often lies in the uncomplicated and straightforward. Share and savor this delightful creation with friends and family as it evokes the warmth and hospitality of Spanish culture.
