Grocery
Canned Crushed Tomatoes
What it is
These are ripe tomatoes that have been peeled, crushed, and canned. They offer a convenient way to add tomato flavor and texture to many dishes. The crushing process breaks down the tomatoes, creating a sauce-like consistency that blends well into recipes. They are a pantry staple for home cooks.
How people cook with it
Crushed tomatoes are a versatile ingredient, perfect for building the base of sauces and stews.
- Sauce bases
- Soups and stews
- Casseroles
- Dipping sauces
When cooking, crushed tomatoes can be added directly to pots and pans. They are excellent for simmering into pasta sauces, where their texture helps thicken the sauce over time. They can also be incorporated into chili, braised dishes, or used as a base for homemade pizza sauce. Their cooked flavor deepens when heated, making them ideal for recipes that require a slow simmer.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole peeled tomatoes, crushed tomatoes have a finer texture and are already broken down, saving preparation time. They are less watery than tomato juice and provide more body than diced tomatoes, which retain more of their original shape.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a convenient way to add tomato flavor to their meals.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused crushed tomatoes to a clean, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and use within a few days. Unopened cans can be stored in a cool, dry pantry until their expiration date.