Tomatoes Clamart is a simple yet elegant vintage dish that highlights the flavors of ripe tomatoes paired with tender, buttery peas. This dish is perfect as a side for dinner or as a light lunch option. The recipe is straightforward: tomatoes are broiled to perfection with melted butter, sugar, and seasonings, and then topped with hot, buttered peas. It’s a classic example of vintage cooking that showcases fresh produce with minimal preparation, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
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Tomatoes Clamart
Food History
Tomatoes Clamart likely draws inspiration from French cuisine, as the term “Clamart” traditionally refers to dishes served with peas. Clamart is a suburb of Paris known historically for its pea fields, and “à la Clamart” indicates the presence of peas in a dish. This preparation combines simple, fresh ingredients—such as tomatoes and peas—often seen in French country cooking.
During the mid-20th century, recipes like this became popular in American kitchens due to their simplicity and versatility. Home cooks could easily prepare a sophisticated side dish using seasonal produce or canned options, following the trend of bringing French-inspired dishes into the American dining room. Broiling tomatoes enhances their flavor, caramelizing the natural sugars and adding a slight char that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peas.
Timeline
- 18th Century: French cuisine develops regional specialties like “à la Clamart,” incorporating fresh peas from the Clamart area into dishes.
- Early 20th Century: French-inspired cooking techniques and recipes gain popularity in America, especially among home cooks looking to elevate simple meals.
- 1950s-1960s: American home cooks begin incorporating more French dishes into their repertoire, using fresh or canned vegetables to create convenient yet elegant sides like Tomatoes Clamart.
- Today: Tomatoes Clamart remains a simple, classic option for showcasing fresh tomatoes and peas in a quick and delicious side dish.
Recipe Discussion
Tomatoes Clamart uses only a handful of ingredients: tomatoes, melted butter, sugar, salt, pepper, and peas. Each element plays a role in enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Tomatoes: Use firm, ripe tomatoes for the best results. Cutting them in half allows the cut side to caramelize under the broiler, intensifying the tomato flavor.
- Butter: Brushing the tomatoes generously with melted butter adds richness and helps them brown under the heat of the broiler.
- Sugar, Salt, and Pepper: A light sprinkle of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor.
- Peas: Traditionally, the dish uses hot buttered peas to top the tomatoes. The sweetness and tenderness of the peas complement the broiled tomatoes perfectly. Fresh peas are ideal, but canned or frozen peas work well as convenient alternatives.
Preparation Tips
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Use large, firm tomatoes that are ripe but not overly soft. This ensures they hold their shape during broiling.
- Even Butter Coating: Make sure to brush the cut side of each tomato half generously with melted butter. This helps the tomatoes caramelize and develop a rich, golden-brown color.
- Monitor Broiling Time: Broiling times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the tomatoes to avoid burning. The goal is to achieve a slight char and tender texture without overcooking.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Peas: Fresh peas offer the best flavor, but frozen peas can be a convenient and quick option. Simply cook them according to the package instructions, then toss with melted butter.
- Warm Serving Dish: Serve the dish on a heated plate to keep the tomatoes and peas warm while bringing the dish to the table. This ensures the flavors stay vibrant and the texture remains perfect.
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- Broiler Pan: A broiler pan is ideal for evenly cooking the tomatoes while allowing heat circulation. It ensures the tomatoes brown nicely without sticking.
- Pastry Brush: Use a silicone pastry brush to evenly coat the tomatoes with melted butter. It’s a versatile tool for cooking and baking.
- Stainless Steel Skillet: A skillet is perfect for quickly cooking and buttering peas. A high-quality, non-stick option helps with even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Baking Sheet: If you don’t have a broiler pan, a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper works well for broiling tomatoes and easy cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Tomatoes Clamart pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak, adding a fresh and flavorful contrast to the meal.
- Brunch Option: Serve alongside poached eggs and toasted bread for a light and elegant brunch option.
- Light Lunch: Pair the dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a balanced and refreshing light lunch.
- Pasta Accompaniment: Add the tomatoes and peas as a topping for pasta, drizzling with extra melted butter or olive oil for a simple and quick pasta dish.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh basil, parsley, or chives for an extra flavor and a pop of color.
A Simple and Elegant Dish
Tomatoes Clamart is an easy yet refined side dish that highlights fresh tomatoes and peas’s natural sweetness and flavor. This vintage recipe, rooted in French tradition, brings a touch of elegance to any meal with minimal preparation. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or brunches, it’s a versatile dish that showcases simple, fresh ingredients at their best.
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Tomatoes Clamart (VRP 400)
Instructions
Cut 3 or 4 large firm tomatoes in half and brush the cut sides generously with melted butter. Sprinkle them with a little sugar, salt, and pepper. Arrange the tomato halves on a baking sheet and broil them about 4 inches from the heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender. Arrange them on a heated serving dish and cover them with hot buttered peas.