Welcome to the wonderful world of tomatoes!
They come in so many colors, shapes, sizes, and flavor profiles. Much like fine wine, it takes a bit of experience to become a tomato connoisseur. But once you open your eyes to the nuances of tomato varieties, there’s no turning back. You might even become a bit of a “tomato snob,” and that’s perfectly okay. After all, it’s all about good taste, right? It’s time to expand your horizons and delve into the fascinating world of tomatoes. Let’s explore the main types of tomatoes and what makes each unique.
Roma Tomatoes
Roma tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens and among the most common of varieties. They are characterized by their oval shape, meaty flesh and have less juice than other varieties. This makes them ideal for sauces, pastes, and canning. Their tangy flavor holds up well during cooking, making them a go-to for Italian sauces like marinara. Romas, while popular, are probably not the premiere choice for a salad or snacking. And, if you want to make burgers or sandwiches, something like a beefsteak or an heirloom tomato may be better suited.
Beefsteak Tomatoes
Beefsteak tomatoes are probably what most people think of when they hear the word tomato, the quintessential variety. They are, in fact, the giants of the tomato world; size and texture separating them from other varieties. Large, juicy, and meaty, they are perfect for slicing and using in sandwiches and burgers. Their slightly sweet, mild flavor and firm texture make them a great addition to fresh salsas as well. Because of their size, they are also ideal for stuffing and baking. If you’re looking for a great salad tomato, however, or one that you can use in practically any culinary application you may want to check out tomatoes on the vine!
Tomatoes on the Vine
Tomatoes on the vine are left to ripen on the vine longer than other varieties, allowing them to develop a rich, full flavor. They are usually medium-sized and have a vibrant red color. Keeping the vine attached enhances their shelf life and gives them a wonderful, fresh aroma. These tomatoes are versatile and can be used in anything from salads to roasting. Tomatoes on the vine don’t disappoint, and if you’re looking for a similar experience but in a smaller form, try cocktail tomatoes!
Cocktail Tomatoes
Cocktail tomatoes are smaller than a typical beefsteak or tomato on the vine but larger than cherry or grape tomatoes. They are sweet, juicy, and have a good balance of acidity. Their size makes them perfect for snacking, adding to salads, and using in appetizers or sliders. Many love this tomato because it is the perfect serving size and reliable taste. Their bright, vibrant flavor can elevate any dish they are added to. Now, if you’re looking for more of a culinary adventure, let’s turn to heirlooms!
Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes are prized for their variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. The name heirloom is reminiscent of their heritage, with seeds passed through generations. Their taste can range from sweet and fruity to rich and tangy, and their unique appearances make them a standout in any dish. They are perfect for caprese salads, sandwiches, or simply sliced and drizzled with olive oil and salt. Not to mention that they bring a pop of color and aesthetic appeal to salsas and other dishes. The deeper the color, the richer the flavor of these unique gems. Now, if you’re looking for further options, love tomatoes, and want to take this flavor on the go, let’s talk about grape and cherry tomatoes.
Grape Tomatoes
Grape tomatoes are small, oval-shaped, and sweet. They have a thick skin and meaty texture. Their size and flavor make them ideal for snacking, salads, and skewers. They hold up well to roasting and can add a burst of sweetness to cooked dishes. Do note that grape tomatoes can vary in sweetness, with field varieties exhibiting more mild flavor and greenhouse grown varieties exhibiting more concentrated sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes
Often sold on the vine to maintain their fresh aroma and enhanced flavor, cherry tomatoes are small, round, and packed with flavor. They are usually sweet and juicy, with a thin skin that makes them perfect for fresh eating. Due to this, you will often experience a juicy pop of sweet and tangy flavor when enjoyed as is. These bite-sized delights are ideal for salads, snacking, and garnishing. They also work well in roasting, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding depth to dishes.
Snacking Tomatoes
Grape and cherry tomatoes are both staples of the snacking world! However, “snacking” in the tomato world is reserved for tomatoes that are bred for sweetness and convenience. In other words, they are small but deliver high flavor and sweetness as well. In tomato lingo, this is referred to as “brix,” which is a measure of sugar content in a tomato. Snacking tomatoes have a higher brix than your typical full sized varieties. They are also often sold in colorful assortments referred to as medleys. Due to their small size, they are portable and fun; perfect for quick, healthy snacks, adding to lunchboxes, or tossing into salads for a pop of color and flavor.
The Greenhouse Advantage
As you peruse the tomato aisle, you may come across the statement “greenhouse-grown.” Greenhouse-grown tomatoes offer a significant flavor advantage to field-grown varieties. By controlling the growing environment, producers can optimize conditions for the best taste and texture. Greenhouse tomatoes often have a more consistent flavor and are available year-round. This means that although certain tomatoes might not be “in season” at a given time, greenhouse varieties can. In addition, the greenhouse infrastructure protects the tomatoes from pests and harsh weather, resulting in a cleaner and more appealing product.
Exploring the diverse world of tomatoes can truly transform your culinary experiences. Each variety brings its own unique taste and texture to the table and as you move from one to the next you will begin to experience their flavor in a totally different way! Embrace the variety and discover your favorites.
