Round in shape, with a bright red shiny skin and red pulp and whitish seeds. The tomato is actually a fruit but is considered a vegetable because of its uses.
What to look for
Choose smooth, firm and plump tomatoes with an even colour and no blemishes. For best flavour make sure the fruits are fully red.
Availability
All year.
Store
Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Tomatoes will ripen in these conditions. Do not refrigerate unless they are over ripe. Refrigerated tomatoes do not have the full flavour of tomatoes stored at room temperature.
How to prepare
Sometimes recipes suggest removal of the skin and seeds of the tomato for a very fine sauce, however this is not necessary for most dishes.
Ways to eat
Tomatoes are very versatile, they can be eaten raw as snacks, in salads and sandwiches. They can be used in soups, pizzas, omelettes, braises and stews. Tomatoes preserve well and are easily frozen and bottled, made into homemade sauces, chutneys, and dried or sundried. Tomatoes are complemented by many herbs, especially basil.
Cooking Methods
Boil, braise, barbecue/char grill, microwave, slow roast, stir fry.
