Air Fryer Tomato Confit

Tomato confit is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes with a depth of flavors brought out through slow cooking in oil, garlic, and herbs. Preparing tomato confit in an air fryer is a modern twist on this classic dish, making it faster and just as flavorful as the traditional oven method. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make tomato confit in the air fryer and share some essential tips for creating a rich, aromatic batch every time.

What is Tomato Confit?

Tomato confit is a method of slow-cooking tomatoes in a mixture of oil and herbs, allowing them to become tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The term “confit” comes from the French word for “preserved,” as this technique was historically used to keep foods longer. When tomatoes are cooked in this manner, they take on a creamy texture, and their flavors intensify, creating a delicious addition to countless dishes.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Tomato Confit

Air fryers are known for cooking food quickly while preserving nutrients and flavors. Here are some reasons why using an air fryer is an ideal choice for making tomato confit:

Faster Cooking Time: Traditional tomato confit recipes can take over an hour in the oven. The air fryer can reduce cooking time by half without sacrificing flavor.
Energy Efficient: Air fryers use less energy than ovens, which can be helpful for both the environment and your utility bill.
Enhanced Flavor: The rapid air circulation in an air fryer helps the tomatoes absorb the flavors from herbs, spices, and oil more efficiently, giving a bolder taste.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Tomato Confit
To make a flavorful tomato confit in the air fryer, gather the following ingredients:

1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, washed and dried
1/2 cup olive oil
3-4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or basil)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
These ingredients may seem simple, but together, they create an intense depth of flavor that enhances any dish.

How to Make Tomato Confit in the Air Fryer
Follow these steps to create the perfect tomato confit in the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly, as moisture can affect the cooking process.
Smash the garlic cloves to release their oils. This step intensifies the garlic flavor as it infuses into the oil and tomatoes.
If using fresh herbs, lightly crush them to release their natural oils.
Step 2: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the tomatoes in a single layer in an oven-safe dish that fits your air fryer basket. Using a dish ensures the tomatoes stay submerged in the oil, which is essential for achieving the “confit” effect.
Pour the olive oil over the tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated and partly submerged.
Add the garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and any optional spices on top of the tomatoes.
Step 3: Air Fry the Tomatoes
Set your air fryer to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature mimics the slow-cooking process needed for confit.
Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, checking every 15-20 minutes. The tomatoes should become soft, with skins slightly wrinkled, but they shouldn’t burst. Adjust cooking time if needed.
Step 4: Let the Confit Cool
Once the tomatoes are cooked to the desired consistency, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.
The oil will be infused with flavors from the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This oil can be used as a sauce base or dressing.
Step 5: Store the Tomato Confit
If you have leftovers, transfer the tomato confit and oil into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure the tomatoes are submerged in oil to preserve freshness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Tomato Confit
Tomato confit is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. Here are some ways to enjoy your homemade tomato confit:

On Toast or Bread: Spread the tomatoes and oil over crusty bread for a simple, delicious appetizer.
With Pasta: Toss the confit tomatoes and their oil with cooked pasta, fresh basil, and Parmesan for a quick and flavorful meal.
As a Pizza Topping: Use the tomatoes as a topping for homemade pizzas, adding a rich, savory element.
With Grilled Meats or Fish: Tomato confit pairs well with grilled meats and fish, adding a touch of acidity and sweetness.
In Salads: Mix the tomatoes into a salad for a burst of flavor, and use the infused oil as a dressing.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Tomato Confit
Choose the Right Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for confit as they have a firm texture and intense flavor. Larger tomatoes can be used, but they may require longer cooking times.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: When air frying, make sure the tomatoes are in a single layer and have space to cook evenly.
Experiment with Flavors: Add different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or a touch of balsamic vinegar, to give your confit a unique taste.
Check for Oil Coverage: Ensure the tomatoes are partly submerged in oil. This oil layer is essential to the preservation process and adds flavor.
Low and Slow Cooking: Air fryers cook quickly, but keeping a low temperature for a longer time helps develop deeper flavors in the confit.
Why Tomato Confit in the Air Fryer is a Game-Changer
Using an air fryer for tomato confit is a brilliant way to enjoy this classic dish without needing a lot of time or effort. The air fryer’s rapid heating helps infuse flavors quickly, producing a rich, intense taste that pairs beautifully with various dishes. Plus, the shorter cooking time and energy savings make it a practical choice for anyone looking to make a quick and delicious confit.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Tomato Confit Without Olive Oil?
Olive oil is traditional and adds a distinct flavor to tomato confit, but you can use other oils like avocado or grapeseed oil. Just ensure that the oil you use has a high enough smoke point to withstand the cooking temperature.

How Long Can I Store Tomato Confit?
Tomato confit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always keep the tomatoes submerged in oil to prevent spoilage.

What Other Vegetables Can I Use for Confit in the Air Fryer?
Aside from tomatoes, vegetables like garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms can be used to make confit. They require a similar low-and-slow cooking approach for optimal flavor.

Conclusion
Air fryer tomato confit is a delicious way to capture the rich flavors of tomatoes, herbs, and garlic in one convenient dish. This recipe offers a faster, energy-efficient method for making tomato confit that retains all the essential flavors and textures of the traditional recipe. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a topping, or as part of a larger meal, air fryer tomato confit is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s recipe collection.

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Arsalan Khan

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