5 types of canned tomatoes: why it is convenient and how to use them

Ripe tomatoes add a special flavor to various dishes. Moreover, the properties of these vegetables allow you to successfully use both fresh and canned fruits.

News Bytes writes, "Canned tomatoes are a chance for any chef, regardless of their experience, to improve their creation. In this guide, we'll look at their various types and uses to expand your culinary horizons."

Whole peeled tomatoes

Whole tomatoes are versatile and can be cut into pieces or left as is for the right texture of the dish. They can be pureed in a blender or food processor, cut with a knife or diced, torn or crushed by hand.

Whole peeled tomatoes don't need a lot of preservatives to stay firm because they are not heavily processed.

Diced tomatoes

Tomatoes diced into small pieces are a great solution if you want a chopped product.

However, keep in mind that unlike whole tomatoes, where chemicals settle on the surface, diced tomatoes may also contain additives to keep their shape in the can.

Such tomatoes are most often used in pasta sauces, stews, and soups.

Crushed tomatoes

Another processing option is crushed tomatoes. This is a mixture of diced tomatoes and tomato paste or puree. They usually contain fewer preservatives than diced tomatoes.

Crushed tomatoes, both small and fleshy, are the basis of many dishes, including stews, pasta sauces, and chili.

This is convenient because you don't have to chop whole tomatoes yourself.

Tomato paste or puree

Pureed, cooked, and twisted tomatoes are used to make tomato paste, a thick, dark, and tasty mass.

It is one of the best ingredients for adding instant flavor to many recipes. Tomato paste is available in tubes and jars.

Tomato sauce

Tomato sauce is thinner than puree and is often flavored with herbs and spices. It is an excellent base for pasta sauces, curries, or marinara.

This product is considered the least "pure" type of canned tomato. At the same time, sauces made with tomato puree are better than those made with tomato paste and water.

Always read labels to understand what you are buying.