What is the first step in the Tomato Fondue method?

The initial step in the Tomato Fondue method involves finely chopping tomatoes. Starting with this step allows for a uniform texture and even cooking, which are essential for achieving the desired consistency and flavors in the sauce. Finely chopping the tomatoes helps release their juices more effectively, ensuring that they break down easily during the cooking process. This contributes to a smoother and more integrated sauce, enabling the other ingredients to meld together beautifully as the dish progresses.

While sweating shallots and garlic, simmering the mixture, and adding thyme leaves are all crucial stages in preparing Tomato Fondue, they occur after the tomatoes have been prepped and chopped. Each of these subsequent steps builds on the foundation established by the finely chopped tomatoes, enhancing the flavor and overall outcome of the dish. Thus, starting with the tomatoes sets the stage for a successful sauce.