Fresh Tomatoes · 1 medium whole (2-3/5" dia)
Fresh Roma Tomato
What it is
This is a fresh Roma tomato, a variety of plum tomato known for its oblong shape and dense, meaty flesh. It has fewer seeds and less water content compared to other tomato types. The skin is typically smooth and firm, and the color is a vibrant red when ripe. Roma tomatoes are a popular choice for cooking due to their concentrated flavor and texture.
How people cook with it
Fresh Roma tomatoes are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, both cooked and raw.
- Sauces and purees
- Roasting and grilling
- Salads and sandwiches
- Dicing for toppings
To prepare, simply wash the tomato under cool water. You can then slice, dice, or halve it depending on your recipe's needs. For sauces, they can be simmered down to create a rich base. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them excellent as a side dish or added to pasta. When used raw, their firm texture holds up well in salads and on sandwiches.
How it differs from similar foods
Roma tomatoes differ from beefsteak tomatoes in their shape and water content. Beefsteaks are larger and juicier, making them ideal for slicing onto burgers. Romas are more concentrated in flavor and less watery, which is why they are preferred for cooking down into sauces.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs often choose Roma tomatoes for their cooking applications.
How to keep the rest
To store, keep unripe tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Once ripe, they can be refrigerated to extend their freshness for a few days, though refrigeration may slightly alter their texture. Use them within a week of ripening for the best flavor.