Shira'S Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

Method

1. I

   Cover the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 minutes.

2. II

   Squeeze dry and then slice on a cutting board.

3. III

   Put them into a food processor with the garlic and basil and process for a minute or two.

4. IV

   Add the vinegar.

5. V

   Start adding water, one tablespoon at a time, while the machine is running.

6. VI

   The mass should start to turn into a deep red paste.

7. VII

   Add one tablespoon of oil.

8. VIII

   Taste and then add the salt and pepper as needed (some brands of dried tomatoes are very salty).

9. IX

   You may need more water to make it spreadable.

10. X

    Spoon into a glass jar, pressing down with a spoon and then pour olive oil over top to keep out the air.

11. XI

    Always make sure that the top is covered with olive oil.

12. XII

    Keep refrigerated.

13. XIII

    Shira says:

14. XIV

    I buy the tomatoes in the shuk (outdoor market), it pays to shop around because they can be quite expensive.

15. XV

    I have also made this with lemon juice instead of vinegar but I think it spoils faster.