Tomato is my child’s favorite fruit. He loves to munch it raw during each meal. However, due to my hectic schedule, I can’t manage to shop in the market weekly. I think it would be better if I’ll just buy a month’s supply of tomato. But how can I preserve them without compromising their taste and overall quality?
Tomatoes have numerous health benefits. They are popularly made as ketchups and good for the heart. They also provide essential antioxidants and help prevent several types of cancer. You can also eat them even raw without hampering their delicious flavors.
If you want to keep a huge supply of tomatoes for the long term then freezing is the best option. You can freeze them whole or chopped. You may also freeze them cooked or uncooked, all depending on your purpose.
Can You Freeze Tomatoes?
There are several ways to preserve tomatoes. Canning is one of the most popular out of the several methods used in preserving them.
Because of the natural acids of tomatoes, you don’t have to pressure can them anymore. All you need to prepare is the jar with its lid and boiling water
Add some lemon juice and a pinch of salt to the container before putting them in. You may also preserve them by making a tomato paste.
Tomato paste is easy to make and it can last for up to six months. However, many can attest that freezing is the most convenient tomato preservation method.
While freezing significantly degrades its texture and structure, it keeps its flavor really well. You can freeze the tomato whole or sliced, with or without skin.
It is also important to take note that frozen tomato is well-suited for soups, stew, and sauces. It’s mainly because of it being mushy when thawed.
How to Freeze Tomatoes
Freezing has distinct advantages over all other preservation methods. It does not require special equipment and is convenient to do.
- Wash – It is important to wash tomatoes first before cutting them. Rub their skin then dry them with a paper towel afterwards. Do not use soap or detergent.
- Slice – This is optional. However, slicing, dicing, or crushing the tomato before freezing will make it more compact. Slicing will also make it easier to thaw. Cut the stem scar before chopping it.
Whole tomatoes with peel do not have to be blanched before freezing. To peel tomato, you need to dip in in boiling water for about a minute for its skin to split easily.
- Freeze – You can now place them in a freezer bag. It is advisable to maintain the temperature of 0˚F or lower. Generally, it is recommended to consume them within eight months for best quality.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Tomatoes?
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. But what do you do when you have extra tomatoes? Here are five delicious ways to use up your leftover tomatoes:
- Make a tomato soup – Tomato soup is a delicious and easy way to use up your leftover tomatoes. Just add them to a pot with some chicken broth and vegetables, and you’ll have a tasty soup in no time.
- Make a tomato sauce – Tomato sauce is another great way to use up your extra tomatoes. Just cook them down with some onions and garlic, and you’ll have a delicious pasta sauce in no time.
- Roast them – Roasting tomatoes is a great way to concentrate their flavor. Just place them on a baking sheet and roast in a 400 degree oven for 20-30 minutes. Once they’re roasted, you can add them to any dish for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make a bruschetta – Bruschetta is a delicious Italian appetizer that is perfect for using up extra tomatoes. Just chop up some tomatoes and mix with olive oil, basil, and garlic. Spread the mixture on some crusty bread, and you’ll have a tasty snack that everyone will love.
- Make a salsa – Salsa is another great way to use up your leftover tomatoes. Just chop them up and mix with onions, peppers, and spices. Serve with chips or use as a topping for tacos or salads.
So there you have it – five delicious ways to use up your leftover tomatoes. Next time you find yourself with extra fruit, try one of these recipes and enjoy!
Tomato Recipes
Baked Parmesan Tomato
Fresh tomatoes are best for baked parmesan tomato. This cheesy tomato recipe can be an appetizer or a side dish. This recipe is easy to prepare.
Tomato Curry
Tomato Curry is a popular Indian recipe usually served as a side dish for rice or chapatti – a wheat bread staple in South Asia. This recipe is particularly well-known in Kerala and Andhra of South India.
Roasted Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Roasted tomato grilled cheese sandwich is a great summer breakfast or lunch dish. They are flavored with gooey melted cheese, roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and buttery bready slices.
Wrap Up
Yes, you can freeze tomatoes. Frozen tomatoes will last for 6-8 months in the freezer. It’s best to blanch them first so that they maintain their texture and color even after being frozen. Here is how you do it: fill a pot with cold water and bring to a boil, cut your tomatoes so that their skin is easier to remove, drop them in boiling water for 30-60 seconds (don’t forget this step), remove the tomatoes from the hot water and place them immediately in cold water so as not to give them additional time to cook, take off the skin and pull out any remaining seeds, pack your desired number of tomatoes into an air tight bag, seal the bag well and store in the freezer.
Now that you know how to freeze your tomatoes, please share your experience with me in the comment below.
