Inspect the stem end
When buying tomatoes, pay attention to the stem end. It is best to buy tomatoes with a stem end that is still firmly attached. Tomatoes with a wrinkled or easily detachable stem end are usually picked a long time ago and will have a less fresh and delicious taste.
Observe the exterior
When buying tomatoes, carefully look at the shape of the tomato. Choose tomatoes that have a relatively uniform size. “Female” tomatoes are usually plump, juicy, and have a sweet taste. “Male” tomatoes, on the other hand, are usually pointy, thin, less juicy, and have a slightly inferior taste. Avoid buying tomatoes with a misshapen or distorted appearance.
Examine the color
When buying tomatoes, it’s important to observe the color. Typically, people prefer to buy tomatoes that are bright red, thinking that this indicates ripeness. However, naturally ripe tomatoes can have a reddish-yellow color and don’t necessarily have to be bright red.
Due to different parts of the tomato being exposed to sunlight, the color on the surface of the tomato may not be consistent. The parts that are exposed to more sunlight tend to ripen to a deeper red, while the parts with less sun exposure may have a slight yellow tint.
Check for firmness
You can hold a tomato to test its firmness. Naturally ripe tomatoes should have a soft flesh and good elasticity when squeezed. If a tomato is fully red but feels firm and rigid when touched, it’s best not to buy it as it may have been treated with chemicals.
Check the weight of the tomato
Try holding a tomato in your hand. If two tomatoes are similar in size, the heavier one indicates a higher water content. Tomatoes with more water content tend to taste better.
How to store tomatoes
After buying tomatoes, there is no need to store them in the refrigerator. Simply leave them at room temperature, around 25 degrees Celsius, and consume them within a week.
To prevent tomatoes from getting crushed, avoid stacking them on top of each other. If you need to stack multiple layers of tomatoes, place a sheet of paper towel or newspaper between the layers.
Regularly check the condition of the tomatoes to promptly identify any signs of spoilage.
Source: Khoevadep