Tomatoes are one of the most versatile foods in the kitchen. Whether as a base for sauces, in salads or simply on their own – they are a real all-rounder. But how do you ensure that they retain their full flavor and nothing goes to waste? With a few simple tips, you can store and preserve your tomatoes in the best possible way.
It’s better not to store tomatoes in the fridge
Tomatoes like it neither too cold nor too warm. The Refrigerator is therefore not the best place for them. At temperatures below 10 °C they lose their aroma and their consistency changes. Instead of being crunchy and juicy, they quickly become mealy. It is better to store them in a cool, shady place, for example in the pantry or cellar.
Make sure that the tomatoes are not stacked on top of each other. This will prevent bruising, which can cause the fruit to spoil more quickly. You should also keep them away from other fruit and vegetables. Tomatoes release ethylene, a gas that accelerates the ripening process. As a result, apples, bananas and cucumbers ripen faster and spoil sooner. At the same time, tomatoes easily absorb foreign odors, which can affect their taste. If you store them correctly, tomatoes will stay fresh for up to a week.
How to preserve tomatoes for a long time
Sometimes tomatoes ripen faster than you can use them. In such cases, it is worth preserving them. One simple method is to Preserving. To do this, peel the tomatoes, put them in sterile jars and add a little salt and citric acid. This way you can preserve them for several months and always have a base for soups, sauces or stews to hand.
Also the Drying is a good option. Cut the tomatoes into halves, remove the seeds and dry them at a low temperature in the oven or dehydrator. You can then marinate the dried tomatoes in oil and season with herbs. This enhances the flavor and is particularly suitable for smaller varieties such as cherry tomatoes. If you’re in a hurry, you can puree the tomatoes and freeze them. This gives you a practical base for many dishes later on.
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It’s all about the right storage
The way you store tomatoes not only affects their taste, but also their nutrient content. When stored optimally, the vitamin C content is largely preserved. Did you know that 100 g of tomatoes contain around 20 mg of vitamin C? This makes them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
However, improper storage can cause the fruit to lose vitamins. This doesn’t just apply to tomatoes, by the way. Other sensitive foods such as peppers or avocados also benefit from the right conditions.
This article was partly produced with machine support and carefully checked by the editorial team before publication.
