What are the qualities of a top-notch can of tomatoes? According to chefs, there are several key attributes to consider:
1. Italian-grown San Marzano tomatoes: Authentic San Marzano tomatoes from Italy are highly recommended. Chefs emphasize the importance of avoiding imitations and opting for the real deal. Look out for the ‘San Marzano-style’ varieties from California or New Jersey, which may not measure up.
2. Minimal ingredients: The best canned tomatoes should have simple ingredients, typically just tomatoes and their juice, without added sugar or preservatives. Avoid options with unnecessary additives like firming agents such as calcium chloride.
3. Low salt content: Opt for canned tomatoes with lower sodium levels to avoid masking flavors with excessive salt. While they may not taste as flavorful straight from the can, they offer versatility in adjusting salt levels during cooking.
4. Undiluted: Choose brands that pack their tomatoes ‘in sauce’ or ‘in purée’ rather than water, as this preserves the tomato flavor and texture.
5. Texture: Whole peeled tomatoes are preferred for their versatility and ability to break down into sauces, according to chefs.
6. Balanced flavor: Look for canned tomatoes with a natural sweetness and mild acidity, avoiding varieties that taste overly processed, acidic, or metallic.
Among the best store-bought canned tomatoes recommended by chefs is Cento San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes. This brand is praised for its quality, consistency, and authentic taste, making it a go-to choice for many chefs. Cento’s San Marzano tomatoes are highlighted for their natural sweetness, mild acidity, and firm texture that holds up well in cooking.
While Cento is a popular choice, some chefs also recommend Bianco DiNapoli Whole Peeled Tomatoes for their exceptional flavor and quality, albeit at a slightly higher price point. These tomatoes, harvested in northern California, are known for their bright red color, fresh tomato flavor, and versatile texture that is meaty yet not watery.
Overall, both Cento and Bianco DiNapoli are favored by chefs for their superior taste and performance in various recipes, making them top contenders in the canned tomato market.
In addition to La Valle Tomatoes, both products are organic. They are citric acid-free and contain no preservatives. Furthermore, they are certified organic, making them highly appealing to home chefs who prioritize the quality and source of their ingredients.
How Chefs Utilize Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes can significantly enhance even the most straightforward dishes, providing a flavorful and reliable alternative when fresh produce is out of season. “During the winter months, I rely on canned tomatoes as they are usually harvested and preserved at the peak of their freshness,” mentions Mooney. Here are some ways professional chefs make the most of this pantry staple in their own kitchens:
Quick and Simple Pasta Sauce: When time is limited, substituting canned tomatoes for store-bought pasta sauce can save the day. “A speedy pasta pan sauce can be effortlessly prepared using diced tomatoes, fennel, onion, garlic, and basil,” suggests Formicola.
Sausage Bake: Cutolo honors a family recipe passed down from his grandfather by using canned tomatoes to create a delectable baked sausage dish. “This one-pan meal is ideal for serving a crowd and offers a straightforward weeknight dinner that promises to satisfy friends and family alike.”
Braises and Stews: Both La Rocca and Schafer favor canned tomatoes for their rich and savory braised dishes. “They are excellent for enhancing the depth of flavors in chili or braised recipes such as chicken cacciatore, steak pizzaiola, or eggplant caponata,” La Rocca explains.
Shortcut Tomato Soup: Green turns to canned tomatoes to whip up a quick and convenient tomato soup. “During the colder months, I combine equal parts canned tomatoes with either chicken or beef broth, simmer the mixture to reduce it by about 25%, and then puree it. The result is a straightforward yet delicious tomato soup that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese.”
Curries: Schafer reveals, “With our busy schedule, we often prepare a hearty curry or stew served over rice at home.” Canned tomatoes play a vital role in adding depth and flavor to these comforting and satisfying dishes.
By utilizing canned tomatoes in diverse culinary creations, chefs can elevate their dishes with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor that appeals to a broad range of palates.
