Among tomatoes’ varieties plum tomatoes stand out for their robustness and lower moisture content. They work well in preparation and dishes because of their chewy texture. We thoroughly examine them in this piece covering their varieties and the significant health benefits.
What are Plum Tomatoes?
Known for their oval appearance and robust flesh structure plum tomatoes are perfect for use in cooking tomato sauces and assembling cans. With a typical seed count lower than many other tomato types and less moisture than others this variety is often selected for cooking over raw eating.
Varieties of Plum Tomatoes
There are several varieties of plum tomatoes, each offering distinct flavors and uses.
Roma Tomatoes
The widely appreciated variety of tomatoes is Roma and finds its application in Italian dishes. Smaller than regular tomatoes this type of tomato is bright red in color and a little sweet for sauces.
San Marzano Tomatoes
San Marzano tomatoes receive high acclaim for their distinctive flavor and are frequently considered a top variety for sauce preparation. Due to their thinner skin and smaller seed content they are a sought-after selection for both culinary professionals and everyday cooks.
Amish Paste Tomatoes
Amish Paste tomatoes possess greater size and have a delightful combination of sweet and sour taste. Typically found in sauce production and canning they also taste great when fresh.
Nutritional Benefits of Plum Tomatoes
These tomatoes pack goodness that aids in supporting health and vitality.
Vitamins and Minerals
They supply vitamins including Vitamin A and Vitamin C and potassium in abundance. Folate and iron present in this variety are crucial for supporting a healthy immune system and enhancing your health.
Antioxidants: Lycopene
They provide a key health advantage due to their rich lycopene level which can lower cancer and cardiovascular disease risks.
Nutritional values of plum tomatoes
They are not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients that make them a healthy addition to your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values of plum tomatoes (per 100 grams):
- Calories: 18 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 3.9 grams
- Sugars: 2.6 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1.2 grams
- Protein: 0.9 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Water: 94.5 grams
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 13.7 mg (15% of Daily Value)
- Vitamin A: 833 IU (17% of Daily Value)
- Potassium: 237 mg (7% of Daily Value)
- Folate (Vitamin B9): 15 mcg (4% of Daily Value)
- Vitamin K: 7.9 mcg (10% of Daily Value)
They are low in calories and fats, but rich in essential vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and A, as well as potassium, which supports heart health. The high lycopene content offers strong antioxidant benefits, promoting better overall health.
How to Grow Plum Tomatoes
Raising plum tomatoes in your garden provides great rewards due to their ease of care and abundant yield. You can easily raise them at home.
Ideal Climate for Growing Plum Tomatoes
In sunny and warm areas plum tomatoes prosper. Growers must provide at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily and enjoy flourishing plants in an environment of about 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
Soil Preparation and Care
Ground requires good drainage and an abundance of organic content. Application of compost or aged manure can increase the fertility of the soil. Watering attentively is important both during the blooming and fruiting periods.
Planting and Harvesting Tips
Start the seeds in a greenhouse about six to eight weeks before moving them to the outdoor garden. Pick the tomatoes after they turn red and are at their ripe point.
Culinary Uses of Plum Tomatoes
You can include them in a diversity of foods. You can use them in several familiar methods in your meals.
Plum Tomatoes in Sauces and Pastes
Because of their hard consistency and low moisture level plum tomatoes thrive in making tomato sauces and pastes. They reduce into a deep sauce that acts as the basis for lots of Italian cuisine like soups and pastas.
In Salads and Salsas
While often put through preparation in recipes, they can be eaten fresh in salads and salsas. Their firm nature delivers a nice flavor that remains firmer than overly liquid.
In Roasted Dishes
Preparing them by roasting deepens their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor for use in roasted veggie blends or as a topping for bread.
Plum Tomatoes vs. Other Tomato Varieties
How do they compare to other common types of tomatoes?
Differences Between Plum Tomatoes and Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are filled with sweet taste and are quite small compared to plum tomatoes that have more substantial flesh and fewer seeds. Cherry tomatoes are great for salads and plum tomatoes are meant for cooking.
Differences Between Plum Tomatoes and Beefsteak Tomatoes
Beefsteak tomatoes are big and juicy enough for making sandwiches. Smaller plum tomatoes are rich in flavor and fit for sauce preparation.
Health Benefits of Eating Plum Tomatoes
Regular consumption of these can contribute to several health benefits.
Heart Health
they contain potassium that aids in controlling blood pressure and lowers heart disease risks. Lycopene aids in preserving a strong heart system.
Cancer Prevention
According to studies done on them lycopene could lower chances for prostate and different types of tumors.
Improved Digestion
they contain dietary fiber that aids digestion and helps avoid constipation.
Storing and Preserving Plum Tomatoes
If you gathered or acquired a significant amount of plum tomatoes here is how to keep and preserve them.
How to Store Fresh Plum Tomatoes
Place them in a cool spot with no exposure to sunlight. They can last longer when refrigerated after they go ripe.
Preserving Through Canning
Storing them in tin cans will let you taste this fruit’s goodness throughout the seasons. To keep the tomatoes for a long period of time you need to blanch them and peel them before placing them in the canner.
Freezing for Long-Term Use
You can freeze them in a fast method of preservation. When needed you can use them whole or as tool slices.
Plum Tomato Recipes to Try
Ready to get cooking? Here are some delicious recipes to try with them.
Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe
This popular tomato sauce is ideal for either pasta or pizza. Add garlic to plum tomatoes along with olive oil and a sprinkle of basil for an enhanced sauce.
Roasted Plum Tomato Soup Recipe
Roast them for a delightful meal and create a velvety soup. Infuse some cream for indulgence.
Fresh Plum Tomato Salad Recipe
Lighten up your meal by stirring tomatoes with cheese and basil and lightly coating them in olive oil. This easy salad suits the seasons of summer.
Where to Buy them
They are widely available both locally and online.
Local Farmers’ Markets
Get organic plum tomatoes from nearby farmers at their markets.
Grocery Stores and Online Retailers
They keep showing up in various grocery shops all year long. You have the option of shopping for them online from unique retailers that highlight organic and heirloom stock.
Common Questions
What is the difference between Roma and Plum Tomatoes?
Roma tomatoes represent one variety of plum tomatoes. All Roma tomatoes are plum tomatoes but not every plum tomato is a Roma tomato. Romas usually appear thinner and longer.
Are they good for making sauces?
Yes! The distinctive texture and relatively low moisture level of plum tomatoes give them a favorable approach for preparing rich sauces.
Can I use them in salads?
Absolutely! They feature a tighter consistency than other kinds that stays intact in salad ingredients.
How do I store Plum Tomatoes?
Place them at a warm location until they turn fully ripe and transfer them to the fridge later.
Are they healthier than regular tomatoes?
Both types of tomatoes deliver equivalent health benefits; nonetheless they have more lycopene which makes them a desirable choice.
Can I grow Plum Tomatoes at home?
Raising them at home is simple with proper attention and a sunny climate.
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