crushed tomato

Crushed Tomato

Crushed tomatoes are a versatile and convenient pantry staple, perfect for adding rich tomato flavor and texture to a wide variety of dishes. These tomatoes are typically made from ripe, peeled tomatoes that have been coarsely chopped or crushed, resulting in a chunky, slightly pulpy consistency. They offer a bright, slightly acidic tomato flavor that's less intense than tomato paste but more pronounced than whole peeled tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes often include a small amount of tomato juice or purée to maintain moisture and enhance the overall flavor. They're an excellent base for sauces, soups, and stews, providing a vibrant color and hearty texture.

Common Uses

  • Use crushed tomatoes as a base for homemade pasta sauce, adding herbs, spices, and vegetables for a flavorful and customizable sauce that's far superior to store-bought versions.
  • Incorporate crushed tomatoes into hearty soups and stews, like minestrone or chili, to provide a rich tomato flavor and chunky texture that enhances the overall heartiness of the dish.
  • Create a simple pizza sauce by combining crushed tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt, simmering for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
  • Utilize crushed tomatoes as a foundation for braising meats, adding them to the cooking liquid to create a tender and flavorful sauce that complements the meat's natural flavors.
  • Stir crushed tomatoes into shakshuka a Middle Eastern and North African dish of eggs baked in a spicy tomato sauce to create the tomato base.
  • Use them to prepare many Mexican dishes, such as salsa ranchera, providing a rich tomato base for the sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

22.0kcal (1.1%)

Protein

1.1g (2.2%)

Carbs

4.8g (1.75%)

Sugars

3.0g (6%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers.
  • Good source of Vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
  • Provides Vitamin A, essential for vision and cell growth.
  • Contains potassium, which may help regulate blood pressure.
  • Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to various diets.

Storage Tips

Unopened crushed tomatoes can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry at room temperature until the expiration date. Once opened, transfer any unused portion to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Use within 5-7 days for best quality. For longer storage, crushed tomatoes can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Allow for headspace in the container as the liquid will expand during freezing.

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