Grocery
Canned Diced Tomatoes
What it is
These are ripe tomatoes that have been peeled, diced, and packed in their own juice. They offer a convenient way to add tomato flavor and texture to a wide variety of dishes. The canning process helps to preserve the tomatoes' freshness and taste. They are a pantry staple for many home cooks. The juice they are packed in is also flavorful and can be used in cooking.
How people cook with it
Diced tomatoes are a versatile ingredient, perfect for adding a burst of tomato flavor to both quick meals and slow-cooked dishes.
- Sauces and stews
- Soups and chilis
- Casseroles and bakes
- Salsas and dips
You can add diced tomatoes directly from the can to your cooking. They are excellent for building the base of pasta sauces, simmering into hearty chilis, or enriching the flavor of stews and braises. For a quicker meal, they can be incorporated into skillet dishes or baked casseroles. Their texture holds up well during cooking, providing small, tender pieces of tomato throughout your dish. The liquid they come in can also contribute to the overall flavor and moisture content of your preparation.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to whole peeled tomatoes, diced tomatoes offer a pre-cut convenience, saving preparation time. They also tend to break down slightly more during cooking than whole tomatoes, contributing a different texture to the final dish. Crushed tomatoes, in contrast, have a smoother, more pulpy consistency.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for an easy way to incorporate tomatoes into their meals.
How to keep the rest
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer any unused portion to a separate container, cover, and refrigerate. It is best to use refrigerated leftovers within a few days for optimal freshness.