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Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular and widely used foods, but for years they've suffered from an identity crisis. How is the word pronounced? Is a tomato a fruit or a vegetable?

Either pronunciation is correct, and technically, a tomato is a fruit; a berry to be exact. In any case, tomatoes are low in fat and calories, cholesterol free and a good source of vitamins A and C.

Georgia tomatoes are available much of the year, from mid-May through mid-November. Tomatoes are grown in southwest Georgia and are one of the state's top cash crops.

A Buyers Guide to Tomatoes

Look for well-formed tomatoes that are smooth, ripe and blemish-free.
Fully ripe tomatoes will be a consistent, rich red color and will be slightly soft.
For tomatoes not quite fully ripe, look for color ranging from pink to light red and firm texture.
Tomatoes with the stems attached lose moisture more slowly and stay fresh longer.
Avoid overripe and bruised tomatoes which are soft and watery.
Tomatoes should not have green or yellow areas or cracks near the stem scar.
Avoid tomatoes with soft spots, depressed areas or surface mold.
If tomatoes need ripening, store them at room temperature.
Don't store tomatoes in the refrigerator unless they're fully ripe. The cold temperatures might keep them from ripening.
Store tomatoes stem-up, to avoid bruising the shoulders.

Best Ways to Enjoy Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a must for tossed salads.
Sliced tomatoes add taste and nutrition to all kinds of sandwiches.
Whole tomatoes can be stuffed with cheese, breadcrumbs and other ingredients for a delicious side dish.
Tomatoes can be used in hot or cold dishes.
Tomatoes add great flavor to a variety of favorite sauces and soups.
Tomatoes are an important ingredient in many Mexican and Italian dishes.

Fun Facts about Tomatoes

The tomato is native to the Peru / Bolivia / Ecuador area of the Andes Mountains, and was introduced to Central
America and Mexico by prehistoric migrations of Indians.
In 16th-century Europe, tomatoes were called "apples of gold" or "love apples".
In England, tomatoes weren't eaten, but were given as tokens of affection.
Sir Walter Raleigh is said to have presented a tomato to Queen Elizabeth.
The tomato is one of four "true" berries. The others are bananas, cranberries and grapes.