Strange Riddle: Damaged Tomatoes, an Unexpected Discovery in My Kitchen!

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### **Instructions**

1. **Prep the Tomatoes**
Score the tomatoes and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Peel off the skins and roughly chop, removing any overly damaged spots.

2. **Sauté the Base**
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add garlic and onion. Cook slowly until soft and fragrant.

3. **Simmer the Magic**
Add the tomatoes, salt, sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Simmer gently, uncovered, for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should reduce to a thick, jam-like consistency.

4. **Add Herbs (Optional)**
Toss in thyme or basil in the last few minutes of cooking. Adjust salt to taste.

5. **Cool and Store**
Let cool, then transfer to a jar. Store in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for later use.

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### **How to Use It**

* Spread it on toast with goat cheese or ricotta
* Swirl into pasta or risotto
* Top grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables
* Serve as a savory dip with crusty bread

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## **The Moral of the Riddle**

This dish taught me something important: **imperfection is often the beginning of creativity**. We tend to throw things away the moment they stop looking pristine—whether it’s fruit, ideas, or even plans. But sometimes, the best flavor comes from what almost got tossed.

So the next time you find a few bruised tomatoes in your kitchen, don’t see a mess. See a mystery. A riddle. A chance to make something unexpectedly delicious.

And who knows? Your kitchen might just surprise you, too.

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