When it comes to buying tomatoes, should you choose round or pointed ones?
At the market, you may have noticed that there are round and pointed tomatoes. Many people are unsure which type to choose. Initially, I also chose based on my feelings, picking the most attractive-looking ones. Tomato growers share that round and pointed tomatoes differ significantly, and it’s essential to understand these differences to make an informed choice.
Distinguishing between round and pointed tomatoes
Round tomatoes:
The top is almost perfectly round and glossy and is referred to as “female tomatoes.” This variety contains more water and has a sweeter taste with less sourness. The thin skin makes them a favorite among many.
Pointed tomatoes:
The top has a pointed tip like a bird’s beak, and the bottom is round. These are called “male tomatoes.” They have thicker skin, a tarter taste, and less water content.
There is also a hybrid variety of tomatoes, usually pointed, with high sweetness and low sourness. However, as it is a genetically modified breed, it is not recommended for regular consumption.
To choose the best-tasting tomatoes, in addition to distinguishing between round and pointed shapes, keep in mind these four additional factors:
1. Examine the tomato stem
A fresh, green stem indicates that the tomato ripened naturally and is fresh.
A stem that is turning red or has withered is a sign that the tomato was forced to ripen or has been stored for an extended period, affecting its taste.
If there is a slight crack near the stem, this variety is usually very sweet.
2. Inspect the tomato skin
A fresh tomato has taut, smooth skin with a subtle aroma. When exposed to light, the skin should reflect a shiny spot.
Wrinkled, soft, or leaky tomatoes have been stored for too long and may have developed an odd smell.
3. Gently squeeze the tomato to check for ripeness
Tomatoes that are slightly soft when squeezed are perfectly ripe and will taste best within the next 1-2 days.
If they are too firm, they are unripe and will taste sour. If they remain hard no matter how hard you squeeze, they may have been treated with growth stimulants, resulting in spongy flesh, less juice, and inferior flavor.
4. Weigh the tomatoes
Tomatoes that feel heavy for their size are likely to be juicy and fresh. If they feel unusually light and hollow when squeezed, they have likely dried out and should be avoided.
In conclusion, when buying tomatoes, opt for the round variety (female tomatoes) as they are sweeter, juicier, and generally taste better. Additionally, keep in mind the tips about checking the stem, skin, ripeness, and weight to ensure you select the highest-quality tomatoes.
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Growing tomatoes is not rocket science, and with the right knowledge, you can easily avoid the common pitfalls that many gardeners face. The following are the biggest mistakes that experts share, to ensure a bountiful harvest.
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