Description

The tomato is now grown worldwide for its edible fruits, with thousands of cultivars having been selected with varying fruit types, and for optimum growth in differing growing conditions. Cultivated tomatoes vary in size from cherry tomatoes, about the same 1–2 cm size as the wild tomato, up to beefsteak tomatoes 10 cm or more in diameter. The most widely grown commercial tomatoes tend to be in the 5–6 cm diameter range.

Fruit Selection

Look for fragrant, plump, heavy tomatoes with smooth skins. They should should be soft and yielding to touch. Avoid bruises, blemishes, and deep cracks. The size of the tomato does not effect the flavor, texture, or quality.

Recommended Storage

Keep the tomatoes out of sunlight. Ripen them stem-side down. Once ripe they will keep for a day or two at room temperature. Refrigerate tomatoes in a warm area in your fridge if you need them for longer. (butter compartment)