SKINNING TOMATOES: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE
Tomatoes add colour, flavour and freshness to countless dishes. But do you need the skin? Should you skin tomatoes or not? An inconspicuous decision that has a significant impact on the taste and texture of your dishes. We'll show you why skinning tomatoes is more than just a small chopping task. Here are the best tricks and hacks to turn your kitchen into a true paradise for tomato fans.
SKINNING TOMATOES - WHY DO YOU ACTUALLY DO IT?
Skinning tomatoes has several advantages:
- Firstly, it removes the skin's texture, which tends to be considered off-putting in many dishes.
- Secondly, removing the skin allows for a smoother and more consistent result. This is particularly important for soups and sauces.
- Thirdly, tomatoes can be better preserved without the skin.
WHICH TOMATOES ARE BEST FOR SKINNING?
Not all tomato varieties are equally suitable for skinning, but some varieties are particularly good for this: beefsteak tomatoes, also known as Roma tomatoes, are ideal due to their low water content. Their firm pericarp makes peeling easier and more efficient. Oxheart tomatoes are heart-shaped and have a thicker skin that is easier to remove. They are ideal for salsas, soups, and preserves.
PEELING TOMATOES STEP BY STEP
WHAT DO YOU NEED:
• Cooking pot with boiling water
• Skimmer
• Bowl with water and ice
• A sharp kitchen Knife
PEEL THE TOMATOES - HERE WE GO
- Score the tomatoes crosswise: Cut an "X" into the skin on the underside of the tomatoes.
- Blanch briefly: Immerse the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Scoring makes it easier to remove the skin.
- Quenching: Immediately after blanching, place the tomatoes in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and make it even easier to remove the skin.
- Peel off the tomato skin: The skin should now be easy to peel off. If necessary, use a sharp kitchen knife to lift the skin.
OTHER METHODS FOR SKINNING TOMATOES
There are various methods for skinning tomatoes, depending on the kitchen equipment available and personal preference. Here are some alternative methods:
- Skinning tomatoes in the microwave: Slightly score the tomatoes and heat in the microwave at 600 - 800 watts for 1 - 2 minutes to loosen the skin.
- Skinning tomatoes in the oven: Roast the tomatoes in the oven until the skin bursts open and can be easily peeled off.
- Scalding tomatoes: Similar to blanching, but without the ice bath.
- Over a gas flame: Roast tomatoes directly over an open flame until the skin blisters and is easy to remove.
- Steamer: Use a steamer to cook the tomatoes and remove the skin more easily afterwards.
RECIPES WITH PEELED TOMATOES
Once you have your peeled tomatoes, you can prepare various delicious dishes. Here are some recipes in which peeled and skinned tomatoes come into their own:
- Sugo: The ideal base for pasta and pizzas.
- Bolognese: A hearty meat sauce for pasta.
- Chutney: Perfect as an accompaniment to meat or cheese.
- Tomato soup: Whether classic or with a creative gin topping, tomato soups are always a delight.
- Bruschetta without tomato skin: A delicious Italian snack based on diced tomatoes, garlic and basil.
- Various sauces: Peeled tomatoes give your sauces a first-class consistency, from tomato sauce to salsa brava.
SKINNING TOMATOES - AN EFFORT THAT PAYS OFF
Skinning tomatoes is time-consuming? That's right. But the effort is worth it for an optimal culinary experience. Try it out and enjoy tasty dishes with the perfect consistency made with peeled tomatoes.
