Originally considered poisonous and grown purely for decoration, they now find their way onto our tables in many forms. We value them not only for their taste and appetising colour.
Tomatoes should be firm, without damage, rot and of uniform colour. The smell is also important and should be most intense around the stalk.
The tomatoes must be ripe, unless you don't want to use them right away. In that case, we can opt for slightly unripe ones, which will stay fresh longer and ripen over time when left in a warm place.
Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature, in a dry and sunny place, stalk side up.
They should not be stored in the fridge as they lose their flavour, colour and texture. Although they are available all year round, it is well known that the taste of a tomato bought in the middle of winter in a supermarket leaves a lot to be desired.
So, let's make the most of the season and go for ground, sun-ripened tomatoes bought at the market from a reliable seller. In the off-season, opt for processed products.
