Tomato, tomato! Whatever you name it, this bright red fruit (or vegetable, according on your stance) is a staple food in most worldwide cuisines. The tomato has an extensive history and many health benefits as well as being the center of attraction for numerous culinary delights. Here are the reasons why tomatoes have become so famous in the world of cooking.
A brief history of the tomato
The story of tomatoes began in South America where they grew wild within the Andes region. Tomatoes were among the first vegetables cultivated by Aztecs and Incas who used them extensively in their cuisine even before Europeans knew about this juicy fruit. Nevertheless, it became a journey to global fame only after Spanish explorers brought it to Europe during the 16th century.
Europeans initially thought that tomatoes were poisonous until they discovered their edibility later on. By 18th Century, tomatoes had become a common ingredient in European kitchens particularly those from Italy where they were consumed with fervor.
Health benefits of the tomato
Tomatoes are not only delicious but also have several nutrients which impact positively on health. Below are some of the main health benefits associated with tomatoes:
Enriched with vitamins
Vitamin C and K, potassium as well as folic acid can be found in abundance in tomatoes. Additionally, vitamin A is present making them suitable for eyesight and strengthening body immunity.
Antioxidant power house
Lycopene forms part of antioxidants contained by tomatoes which reduce chances of heart diseases and cancer development effects have been traced back to Lycopene that gives these fruits their deep red color.
Cardiovascular wellness
Potassium and antioxidants contained by these fruits help lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels enhancing general heart fitness.
Manage weight
Low calorie count combined with richness in water content makes tomato remarkable when added into menu intended for weight loss programs.
Good skin
Vitamins and antioxidants in tomatoes can keep the skin healthy and younger looking.
Culinary uses of the tomato
Tomatoes are very versatile and can be used in different dishes. Here are some ways to use them in your cooking:
Sauces and soups
Consider marinara sauce, tomato soup or chili. A lot of strong flavors come from using tomatoes in such meals that are both filling.
Salads
Fresh tomatoes give salads a unique flavor. Try them in a classic Caprese salad with mozzarella and basil.
Salsas
The chopped tomatoes that go into other salsa recipes give it freshness and acidity.
Sandwiches and burgers
Adding a touch of color to an otherwise plain sandwich or burger is a slice of tomato for juiciness.
Roasted or grilled
They become sweeter when roasted or grilled because they intensify the natural flavor of tomatoes. These would be ideal as a side dish or in pasta dishes.
Interesting facts about tomatoes
Do you know that, there was once a 10lb tomato! The amount of salsa this can make is incredible!
A tomato by any other name
Tomato festival
Each year, Buñol, a Spanish town, hosts La Tomatina, the world’s largest food fight. People lob overripe tomatoes at each other; it is messy and fun all about tomatoes.
The tomato is an amazing wonder of nature. Tomato’s enigmatic origins and transcontinental journey as well as its numerous health benefits and many uses in the kitchen has earned it a place in our hearts and on our dining tables. From biting into a ripe one to enjoying the richness of tomato sauce or being entertained by a tomato fiesta; we cannot run away from the fact that tomatoes bring joy into our lives through their vibrant taste.
So next time you look at a tomato just wink at it because it is much more than merely a fruit (or vegetable); it signifies culinary flair and health.