A Buyer's Guide to Canned Stewed Tomatoes
Introduction
When it comes to canned stewed tomatoes, it's important to choose a high-quality product to ensure that your dish turns out tasty and delicious. In this article, we'll go over some key factors to consider when choosing canned stewed tomatoes, including the type of tomato, the canning process, and additional ingredients.
The Type of Tomato
First and foremost, it's important to pay attention to the type of tomato used in the canned stewed tomatoes. The most common type of tomato used is the Roma tomato, which is known for its firm, meaty flesh and low moisture content. This makes it ideal for canning, as it holds up well during the canning process and doesn't become too mushy or watery.
However, some brands may use other types of tomatoes in their canned stewed tomatoes, such as San Marzano tomatoes. These tomatoes are known for their sweet, rich flavor and are often considered to be the best tomatoes for making sauce. If you're looking for a more robust, flavorful option, you may want to consider canned stewed tomatoes made with San Marzano tomatoes.
The Canning Process
Another factor to consider when choosing canned stewed tomatoes is the canning process used. The most common method of canning tomatoes is by using a pressure canner, which uses high pressure and temperature to kill bacteria and preserve the tomatoes. This method is effective at ensuring that the canned stewed tomatoes are safe to eat and have a long shelf life.
However, some brands may use a different canning method, such as hot water bath canning. This method involves boiling the tomatoes in a hot water bath for a set period of time to kill bacteria and seal the cans. While this method is less effective at preserving the tomatoes, it can still be a good option for those who prefer a more natural, preservative-free option.
Additional Ingredients
In addition to the type of tomato and the canning process, you should also consider the additional ingredients used in the canned stewed tomatoes. Some brands may add extra spices and herbs, such as basil and oregano, to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes. Others may add salt, sugar, or other ingredients to help preserve the tomatoes and extend their shelf life.
If you're looking for a more natural option, you should opt for canned stewed tomatoes that contain minimal additional ingredients. However, if you don't mind a little extra seasoning, you may want to choose a brand that adds extra herbs and spices for added flavor.
Conclusion
Overall, choosing the right canned stewed tomatoes involves considering several factors, including the type of tomato, the canning process, and additional ingredients. By taking the time to consider these factors, you can ensure that you choose a high-quality product that will make your dishes taste delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between canned tomatoes and stewed tomatoes?
Canned tomatoes, such as diced and crushed tomatoes, are tomato chunks packed in juice or a mixture of diced tomatoes and tomato puree. Stewed tomatoes, on the other hand, are cooked and canned with additional seasonings and sugar. Stewed tomatoes have a different texture and flavor profile compared to canned tomatoes.
2. Can I substitute canned tomatoes for stewed tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes, with or without juice, for stewed tomatoes. This is especially true if the recipe calls for canned crushed tomatoes, which have a similar texture to stewed tomatoes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may differ slightly.
3. Do you have to water bath stewed tomatoes?
No, you don't need to water bath stewed tomatoes. The process of canning stewed tomatoes involves blanching, peeling, cooking, and placing them into jars. This method does not require a pressure cooker or water bath. However, it is a time-consuming process that anyone can do.
4. How long do you water bath canning stewed tomatoes?
When water bath canning stewed tomatoes, you need to boil them for 35 minutes for pints and 45 minutes for quarts. This ensures that the tomatoes are properly processed and preserved.
5. What are canned stewed tomatoes used for?
Canned stewed tomatoes are versatile and can be used in various dishes. They are great additions to soups, stews, pot roasts, and chili. They can also be used as a replacement for ketchup in meatloaf recipes. Stewed tomatoes work well in dishes that require larger chunks of cooked tomato and longer cooking times.
6. Do you drain canned stewed tomatoes?
No, you should not drain canned stewed tomatoes. While it may seem unusual, it's best to leave them undrained to retain their savory juices. The canned tomatoes themselves make up the bulk of the can, but there's more to the vegetable that's worth keeping.
7. What can I use if I don't have stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes, you can use alternatives such as tomato sauce, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato purée, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes, or salsa. Each option may provide a slightly different flavor and texture to your dish.
8. Are canned diced tomatoes the same as stewed tomatoes?
No, canned diced tomatoes are different from stewed tomatoes. Diced tomatoes are simply chopped up tomatoes, while stewed tomatoes are both chopped and cooked. Additionally, plum tomatoes are another variety of tomatoes that are peeled whole.
9. Can you can stewed tomatoes in a hot water bath?
Yes, you can process stewed tomatoes in a hot water bath canner. Bring the water in the canner to a boil, place the jars on the rack, and lower them into the boiling water. Make sure the water covers the jars by about an inch.
10. Do you need to add lemon juice when canning stewed tomatoes?
Yes, to ensure safety, it is recommended to add acid in the form of lemon juice, citric acid, or vinegar to tomatoes that will be processed using a pressure canning option. The acid helps maintain safe acidity levels in the canned stewed tomatoes.
11. How long do you water bath tomatoes in their own juice?
When water bath canning tomatoes in their own juice, you can either raw pack or hot pack them in jars with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice per quart (1 tablespoon per pint). If desired, you can also add 1 teaspoon of salt per jar. Secure the lids and process in a water bath canner for 85 minutes. Note that higher altitudes above 1,000 ft may require an increase in processing time.
Editor's Notes
During our canned stewed tomato research, we found 24 canned stewed tomato products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 125,833 customer reviews through our big data system to write the canned stewed tomatoes list. We found that most customers choose canned stewed tomatoes with an average price of $4.55.
The canned stewed tomatoes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of canned stewed tomatoes, including 365 by Whole Foods Market, Muir Glen, Cento, SMT SAN MERICAN TOMATO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
