Grocery
Whole Peeled Tomatoes in Tomato Juice
What it is
These are ripe tomatoes that have been peeled and then packed in their own juice. The juice helps to preserve the tomatoes and adds a bit of liquid to recipes. They are a convenient way to have tomatoes available year-round for cooking. The tomatoes are typically whole, allowing you to break them down as needed for your dish.
How people cook with it
Whole peeled tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of savory dishes.
- Sauces for pasta
- Soups and stews
- Chili and casseroles
- Pizza toppings
When using whole peeled tomatoes, you can either crush them by hand for a rustic texture or use an immersion blender to create a smoother sauce. They are excellent when simmered with aromatics like garlic and onions to form the base of many Italian-inspired dishes. The juice they are packed in can also be incorporated into your cooking to add extra tomato flavor and moisture. For a quick sauce, simply heat them with herbs and spices.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to diced tomatoes, whole peeled tomatoes offer more control over the final texture of your dish. They also tend to have a more concentrated tomato flavor because they are packed in their own juice, rather than water or puree.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a foundational ingredient for sauces and stews will find these useful.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomatoes and their juice to a clean, airtight container. Store this container in the refrigerator and use within a few days. This helps maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage.