Tomato Bread Pudding

A Taste of Summer: My Family's Beloved Tomato Bread Pudding

The scent of grilling meat, the laughter of family and friends, and the comforting warmth of a summer evening on the shores of Lake Charlevoix – these are the memories that flood back whenever I make my family's beloved tomato bread pudding. This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a time capsule, transporting me back to those idyllic Michigan summers of my childhood.

It all started nearly 50 years ago when my family rented a summer house on the lake. My father, a master of the grill, would whip up incredible feasts, but it was this unassuming side dish that stole the show. It was a revelation – sweet, savory, and utterly unexpected. The combination of soft, buttery bread, tangy tomatoes, and a subtle hint of spice created a flavor profile that was both comforting and exciting. It was different, it was delicious, and it instantly became a family favorite, a tradition we’ve carried on for generations.

Over the years, this recipe has become a staple at our family gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always disappears quickly. People are often surprised by the unique combination of ingredients, but they are always won over by the rich and satisfying flavor. It’s the perfect complement to grilled meats, but it's also delicious on its own, a warm and comforting treat.

What makes this tomato bread pudding so special? It’s the simplicity, I think. The ingredients are basic, readily available, and easily combined to create something truly extraordinary. The key is to use ripe, juicy tomatoes, which will provide the perfect sweetness and acidity. The melted butter adds a richness that complements the tomatoes beautifully, and the subtle spice adds a touch of warmth that elevates the entire dish. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most rewarding.

This recipe is more than just a dish; it's a story. It's a story of family, summer vacations, and the simple pleasures that make life meaningful. It's a reminder that the most cherished memories often revolve around the food we share and the people we share it with. So, next time you’re looking for a unique and memorable side dish, I encourage you to try this recipe. It's sure to become a family favorite in your home, too. It's a taste of summer, a taste of family, and a taste of home.

Beyond the taste, this dish holds a special place in my heart because it's a link to my past. It's a reminder of simpler times, of family gatherings, and of the joy of creating lasting memories. And that, more than any ingredient, is what makes this tomato bread pudding truly special. Every bite is a trip down memory lane, a journey back to those summer days by Lake Charlevoix. The comforting warmth of the oven, the tantalizing aroma filling the kitchen, it's a sensory experience that brings back those precious moments with clarity and affection.

This recipe is my gift to you, a small piece of my family's history, a taste of our summers. I hope it brings you as much joy as it brings me. It's more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create your own memories, your own traditions, around a table filled with laughter, love, and, of course, delicious tomato bread pudding.

Step-by-step

• Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 400°F.
• Toss bread cubes with butter in a 13- by 9-inch baking dish until coated.
• Purée tomatoes with juice in a blender for 5 seconds, then transfer to a small saucepan along with water, brown sugar, tomato paste, salt, and hot sauce.
• Bring mixture just to a simmer, then pour over bread, stirring to combine.
• Bake, uncovered, until edges are beginning to caramelize, 35 to 40 minutes.