Grocery
Canned Crushed Tomatoes
What it is
These are ripe tomatoes that have been peeled, crushed, and packed into a can. They are a versatile pantry staple, offering a convenient way to add tomato flavor to a wide range of dishes. The crushing process breaks down the tomatoes, releasing their juices and creating a slightly textured consistency that blends well into sauces and stews. They are a foundational ingredient for many home cooks.
How people cook with it
Crushed tomatoes are a go-to for building flavor in many cooked dishes. They form the base for sauces, soups, and casseroles.
- Sauce bases
- Soup starters
- Casserole fillings
- Simmered stews
When cooking, crushed tomatoes can be added directly to a pot to begin building a sauce or soup. They are excellent for simmering, allowing their flavor to deepen and meld with other ingredients. You can sauté aromatics like onions and garlic before adding the crushed tomatoes, or incorporate them into baked dishes. Their texture is ideal for creating a smooth yet slightly chunky sauce that coats pasta or meat. They are a quick way to introduce a rich tomato taste without the prep of fresh tomatoes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole peeled tomatoes, crushed tomatoes have a softer, more broken-down texture. This means they cook down more quickly and integrate more easily into sauces without needing extensive breaking apart. Diced tomatoes, on the other hand, retain more distinct pieces of tomato, offering a different textural experience.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a convenient way to add tomato flavor to their meals.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused crushed tomatoes to a clean, airtight container. Refrigerate and use within a few days to maintain freshness. Properly stored, they can be kept for a short period after opening.