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Tomatoes are an essential ingredient in many dishes, and their versatility makes them a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Along with aubergines, peppers, and chilies, tomatoes belong to the nightshade family. Although tomatoes are commonly thought of as vegetables, they are actually fruits.
Originating in western South America, tomatoes were brought to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that they gained popularity in northern Europe. Now, there are thousands of tomato varieties, ranging in size from the large beefsteak to the tiny cherry tomato. They have a sweet and tangy flavor that can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. Read more about Health Benefits of Tomatoes.
To prepare tomatoes, wash them and cut them whole, halve, quarter, slice, chop, or dice them as needed. If you want to remove the skins before using them in a sauce, follow these simple steps:
Cut out the green stalk and core at the top of the tomato, make a shallow cross at its base, place the tomatoes in a bowl, and cover with boiling water for 30 seconds. Then, drain and remove the loosened skin.
Alternatively, you can purchase canned, pulped, pureed, or juiced tomatoes.
When it comes to cooking tomatoes, there are many options. Roast them whole for 15-20 minutes, halve and grill for 3-4 minutes, or slice and fry for 2-3 minutes per side. They can also be used in sauces, soups, stews, and salads.
To store tomatoes, it’s best to keep them at room temperature to avoid muting their flavor. However, if they are very ripe, they can be stored in the fridge in a perforated bag. Just remember to take them out of the fridge for 30 minutes before consuming them so they can warm up. For canned tomatoes, transfer any leftovers to a non-metal, airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two days.
When selecting tomatoes, look for firm ones with wrinkle-free skin and a noticeable tomato smell. The best-tasting tomatoes are those allowed to ripen on the vine before being picked. Freshly picked, locally grown tomatoes are ideal, and you can check their freshness by the perky appearance of their leafy tops. Avoid any with signs of mold.
There are different types of tomatoes, each with its own unique flavor and purpose. Beefsteak tomatoes are large and meaty, perfect for salads, grilling, or stuffing. Salad or round tomatoes are the traditional British variety, while cherry tomatoes are small and sweet, great in salads, pasta sauces, or roasted. Plum tomatoes are ideal for making sauces and stews, and there are also green and yellow varieties with their own tangy flavors and uses.
Tomatoes, especially the smaller tumbling varieties, are easy for those with a green thumb to grow at home. Seek advice from experts on how to grow your own tomatoes.
Tomatoes are available all year round with a constantly changing lineup of varieties depending on the season. In Britain, the tomato season runs from June to October. In the winter months, canned tomatoes can be used to reduce food miles and the environmental impact of transportation.
With this knowledge, you can confidently select, prepare, and cook tomatoes in various dishes according to your preferences. Enjoy this essential ingredient’s delicious and versatile flavors in your next meal.
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