How to Pick the Best Tomatoes at Any Time of Year
Learn how to select the juiciest, most flavorful tomatoes no matter the season with these expert tips.
The Tomato Conundrum
Ah, the tomato. A summer staple, sure, but what happens when Old Man Winter rolls around? Fear not, fellow home cook. Selecting top-notch tomatoes is possible year-round, you just need to know what to look for.
Know Your Varieties
Not all tomatoes are created equal, and understanding the different types is the first step to picking the perfect one:
- Beefsteak: Large and juicy, ideal for slicing onto sandwiches or burgers.
- Cherry: Small and sweet, perfect for salads or snacking straight up.
- Roma: Plum-shaped and meaty, great for sauces and canning.
- Heirloom: Varied in shape and color, offering unique flavors.
The Touch Test
Sure, looks matter, but feel is king. A ripe tomato should yield gently to pressure – think of it like a firm handshake. If it feels like a rock, it’s not ready. If it feels squishy, it’s past its prime.
Color Isn’t Everything
While vibrant color is a good sign, don’t let it be your sole judge. Different varieties have different hues. A green-tinged heirloom can be perfectly ripe, while a supermarket red might be as flavorless as a plastic toy.
The Smell Test
A ripe tomato should smell like, well, a ripe tomato. Earthy. Fresh. Tempting.
Avoid any off odors, which indicate spoilage.
Seasonal Savvy
In Season
During peak season (typically late summer), your options are plentiful. Farmers markets and local farms are your best bets for vine-ripened treasures.
Out of Season
When tomatoes are scarce, look for those labeled 'vined-ripened' or 'tree-ripened.' These are often better than their greenhouse counterparts, which can be hit-or-miss.
Storing Your Tomatoes
Once you've got your hands on the perfect tomatoes, store them properly. Room temperature is best – never refrigerate a ripe tomato. The cold can sap its flavor faster than you can say'marinara sauce.'
Mini-FAQ
Q: Can I ripen tomatoes at home?
A: Absolutely! Place them stem-side down on the counter. If they're still green, throw them in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up the process thanks to ethylene gas.
Q: Are organic tomatoes better?
A: Not necessarily in terms of taste, but they are better for the environment and potentially your health due to fewer pesticides.
Q: What about canned tomatoes?
A: When fresh isn't an option, canned tomatoes can be a lifesaver. Look for brands with minimal additives and cook up a storm.
Closing Thoughts
Remember, a great tomato isn’t just about luck. It’s about knowing what to look for, how to handle it, and how to store it to maximize its potential. With these tips, you’ll be making BLTs and Caprese salads with confidence, no matter the calendar. Now go forth and pick wisely!
