Processed tomatoes sealed in a can
Canned tomatoes
, or
tinned tomatoes
, are
tomatoes
, usually peeled, that are sealed into a
can
after having been processed by heat.
[1]
Variants
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Canned tomatoes are available in several different forms. The traditional forms are whole peeled tomatoes, packed in
juice
or
puree
, and ground tomatoes, sometimes referred to as "kitchen-ready." Ground tomatoes are not to be confused with puree, which is similar but more cooked. Taste tests indicate that whole tomatoes packed in juice tend to be perceived as fresher-tasting than those packed in puree. Crushed tomatoes, commonly used for pasta sauces, are made by adding ground tomatoes to a heavy medium made from
tomato paste
. Diced tomatoes have become increasingly common for applications where a chunkier or more substantial product is needed. In recent years, the Petite Diced form (3/8" cut pieces) has become the fastest growing segment of canned tomatoes.
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Usage
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In areas and situations where in-season, perfectly ripe tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes are often used as an alternative to prepare dishes such as
tomato sauce
or
pizza
. The top uses for canned tomatoes are
Italian
or
pasta
sauces
,
chili
,
soup
,
pizza
,
stew
,
casseroles
, and
Mexican cuisine
.
Economic aspects
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Industrially produced canned tomatoes are internationally a staple product
[2]
and subject to regular
market analysis
[3]
as well as trade considerations.
[4]
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Home preservation
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Home canned tomatoes may be prepared in a number of ways.
[6]
However, safety measures need to be taken since improperly canned tomatoes can cause
botulism
poisoning, whether produced industrially or at home.
[7]
Diced tomatoes
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Diced tomatoes
usually refers to
tomatoes
that have been
diced
. In the
United States
retail environment, however, the term refers to canned chunks of
plum tomatoes
in
tomato juice
or
tomato puree
, sometimes seasoned with
basil
or
garlic
. This product is a relatively recent arrival in the processed tomato market, and has become quite popular since its introduction in the mid-90s, probably due to American tastes for a chunkier
tomato sauce
.
Calcium chloride
is sometimes added to stabilize the cell structure of the canned tomatoes, giving the end product a firmer texture.
Canned diced tomatoes are primarily used in
Italian-American cuisine
. They are generally available in two sizes, regular (roughly 2 cm or 7/8 in) for long-cooked dishes and petite (roughly 1 cm) for quicker applications.
See also
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References
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Tomato types
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Tomato cultivars
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Culinary
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Condiments
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Pest and
diseases
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See also
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