7 Things to Keep in Mind When Eating Tomatoes

As a humble fruit that graces the tables of most Vietnamese families, tomatoes offer a slightly tangy taste and are rich in Vitamins A and C. While this ingredient is familiar, it's important to keep some key considerations in mind to ensure both the health benefits and delicious flavor of your dishes.

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Choosing Tomatoes

When selecting tomatoes, opt for those that are naturally ripened, with taut and glossy skin, sporting a red hue but not uniformly coloured. A gently soft feel and the presence of white-yellow seeds that are soft and powdery when cut are indicators of a good tomato.

Tomatoes ripened with chemicals tend to take longer to cook, have less pulp, and appear dull in colour. They also feel firm to the touch and lack the characteristic tomato aroma.

Storing Tomatoes

If you’re a frequent tomato user, consider making tomato sauce to preserve them for extended periods. Avoid buying and storing whole tomatoes for prolonged periods, as they may spoil and lead to waste.

Refrain from Refrigerating Tomatoes

Unlike other vegetables, tomatoes are not recommended for refrigeration. Low temperatures can cause them to turn mushy and watery, compromising their distinctive flavour. It’s best to buy only the amount you need for the day.

Selecting the Right Knife for Tomatoes

While straight-bladed knives are commonly used for cutting tomatoes, they can lead to a loss of juice and nutrients. Consider using a serrated knife with a stainless steel blade to better retain the tomato’s juices and nutritional content.

Peeling Tomatoes

To easily peel a tomato, use a knife to gently score an ‘X’ on the skin, and then dip it in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Thereafter, plunge the tomato into cold water, and you’ll be able to peel the skin off without affecting the fleshy part.

Cookware for Tomatoes

Aluminium and cast iron cookware can react with the acids in tomatoes, altering their flavour and potentially damaging the cookware. Instead, opt for non-stick or stainless steel cookware when preparing tomato-based dishes.

Proper Tomato Storage

For optimal storage, place tomatoes in a basket or colander in a cool, well-ventilated area, avoiding sealed bags. To hasten ripening, store them with apples.

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Tomatoes are at their best when freshly ripened, so choose recently ripened tomatoes for cooking, and avoid storing them for extended periods.

Frequently asked questions

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, K, potassium, and folate. They also contain lycopene, an antioxidant with potential health benefits like reduced risk of heart disease and cancer prevention.

Yes, cooking tomatoes increases the amount of lycopene available for our bodies to absorb. This is because lycopene is a fat-soluble nutrient, so combining it with healthy fats like olive oil during cooking enhances its bioavailability.

To get the most out of tomatoes, it’s recommended to eat them with healthy fats like avocado, nuts, or olive oil. Combining tomatoes with Vitamin C-rich foods like bell peppers or citrus fruits also enhances iron absorption.

Absolutely! Tomatoes are low in calories and have a high water content, making them a great snack or addition to meals when trying to lose weight. They also contain fiber, which can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.

While rare, some people may have an allergy to tomatoes, so it’s important to be mindful of any adverse reactions. Additionally, those with kidney issues should monitor their tomato intake as they are high in oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation.

Look for vibrant, richly colored tomatoes with a slight give when gently squeezed. Avoid those with bruises or soft spots, and opt for ones with a pleasant tomato aroma. Storing them at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, is best to preserve their flavor and texture.

Yes, freezing is a great way to preserve tomatoes. Simply wash, dry, and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, run the frozen tomatoes under warm water and the skins will slip off easily. They’re then ready to be added to sauces, soups, or any cooked dish.
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