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Tomatoe

Solanum lycopersicum Allergen-Free
Tomatoe

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Summer
  • Source Plant

What Is Tomatoe?

Botanically a fruit, the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a widely cultivated, edible berry known for its vibrant red (and sometimes yellow, orange, green, or purple) color and juicy pulp. It is a staple in cuisines worldwide, valued for its complex flavor and adaptability in cooking.

"To truly appreciate a tomato, select varieties for their intended use – a firm Roma for sauce, a sweet cherry for salads, and a beefsteak for slicing."

What Does Tomatoe Taste Like?

Tomatoes offer a balanced flavor that ranges from refreshingly sweet and tangy to deeply savory and umami-rich, with subtle earthy undertones.

Taste
Sweet, Tangy, Umami, Acidic
Texture
Juicy, Pulpy, Smooth
Aroma
Earthy, Fruity, Leafy
Acidity
Medium

Technical Metrics

pH Level

4.3-4.9

Water Content

95%

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium tomato (123g)
Calories22 kcal
Total Fat0.2g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.1g
Total Carbohydrate4.8g
Dietary Fiber1.5g
Total Sugars3.2g
Calcium12mg
Iron0.3mg
Potassium292mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily peel tomatoes for sauces, score an 'X' on the bottom, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to an ice bath; the skins will slip right off.

Tomatoe Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Tomatoe is Canned Crushed Tomatoes, used at a 1:1 ratio. Ideal for sauces and stews when fresh tomatoes are out of season or when you need a concentrated tomato flavor.

Substitutes for Tomatoe with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Canned Crushed Tomatoes Best 1:1 Ideal for sauces and stews when fresh tomatoes are out of season or when you need a concentrated tomato flavor.
Bell Pepper (Red) 1:1 For adding a sweet, slightly acidic crunch and color in salads or as a raw component, though without the same umami depth.
Zucchini 1:1 As a neutral, watery vegetable for adding bulk and moisture to dishes where the tomato flavor isn't critical.
Eggplant 1:1 When a meaty, absorbent texture is desired in cooked dishes, especially in stews or grilled preparations.

How to Choose & Store Tomatoe

  1. Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature, stem-side down, away from direct sunlight.
  2. Do not refrigerate ripe tomatoes as it degrades their flavor and texture.
  3. For unripe tomatoes, place them in a paper bag to speed ripening.
  4. Once cut, refrigerate promptly in an airtight container.

What Pairs Well With Tomatoe?

  • Basil
  • Mozzarella
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Onion
  • Oregano
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Chili flakes
  • Feta
  • Avocado

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Tomatoe taste like?

Tomatoes offer a balanced flavor that ranges from refreshingly sweet and tangy to deeply savory and umami-rich, with subtle earthy undertones. Earthy|Fruity|Leafy

What is a good substitute for Tomatoe?

The best substitute is Canned Crushed Tomatoes (1:1). Ideal for sauces and stews when fresh tomatoes are out of season or when you need a concentrated tomato flavor.

How do you choose and store Tomatoe?

Store ripe tomatoes at room temperature, stem-side down, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate ripe tomatoes as it degrades their flavor and texture. For unripe tomatoes, place them in a paper bag to speed ripening. Once cut, refrigerate promptly in an airtight container.

Related Fruit Ingredients

Need a substitute for Tomatoe right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.