Sweet Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables (although technically a fruit) in the world and for good reason. They’re versatile, flavorful and packed with nutrition. But have you ever wondered what the sweetest tomatoes are and how to grow them yourself? In this article, we’ll explore the sweetest tomato varieties, offer tips for growing them and share some delicious recipes to make the most of their sweetness.
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Sweetest Tomato Varieties
While there are many different tomato varieties, some are known for their sweetness more than others. Here are a few of the sweetest tomato varieties to consider:
Sun Gold
These are popular hybrid cherry tomato that is known for its sweet and fruity flavour. It has a bright orange colour and a thin skin, making it easy to bite into. Sun Gold tomatoes are often described as having a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity and are a favourite among gardeners and chefs alike. They are typically harvested when they are fully ripe, which is when they are the sweetest. Sun Gold tomatoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sauces and salsas. They are also great for snacking on their own or adding to charcuterie boards.
Cherokee Purple
It is a type of heirloom tomato that has a purple to deep pink colour and a slightly sweet and smoky flavour. It originated from the Cherokee people of the Southern United States and has gained popularity among tomato enthusiasts for its unique taste and texture. Cherokee Purple tomatoes are medium to large in size, with a meaty texture that makes them ideal for slicing and using in sandwiches or salads. They are typically grown in warm climates and can be harvested from mid to late season.
Brandywine
This is a popular heirloom tomato variety known for its large, beefsteak-style fruits and exceptional flavour. The Brandywine tomato typically has a pinkish-red colour and a slightly ribbed shape and can weigh up to one pound or more. Its flesh is meaty and juicy, with a sweet, rich and slightly tangy flavour that is considered by many to be the gold standard for tomato taste. The Brandywine tomato plant is indeterminate, meaning it will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season and it requires ample sunlight, warm temperatures and well-drained soil to thrive.
Yellow Pear
Pear tomatoes are small, pear-shaped tomatoes that are bright yellow in colour. They have a slightly sweet and tangy flavour and are commonly used in salads or as a garnish. They are known for their juicy and firm texture, making them a popular choice for snacking as well. Yellow Pear tomatoes are also a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium and fibre. They grow well in warm climates and are easy to cultivate in home gardens.
Black Cherry
It is a popular heirloom variety of tomato that produces clusters of small, round, deep purple to black fruits with a rich, sweet flavour. The plant is indeterminate, meaning it will continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the growing season. Black Cherry tomatoes are great for snacking, salads and adding colour to a variety of dishes. They are also a good source of vitamins A and C.
Growing Sweet Tomatoes
Growing sweet tomatoes starts with selecting the right variety for your climate and growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you grow the sweetest tomatoes:
| Healthy seedlings | Whether you’re starting your tomatoes from seed or buying seedlings from a nursery, make sure they are healthy and disease-free. |
| Choose the right location | Tomatoes need plenty of sun and well-draining soil to thrive. Choose a spot in your garden that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. |
| Fertilise regularly | Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilisation. Choose a fertiliser that is high in phosphorus and potassium, which will help promote healthy growth and sweet fruit. |
| Water deeply | Tomatoes need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once or twice a week, making sure the soil is moist down to the roots. |
| Prune regularly | Pruning your tomato plants will help them focus their energy on producing sweet, juicy fruit. Remove any suckers (small shoots that grow between the stem and a branch) and prune the tops of the plants to keep them from growing too tall. |
Harvesting the Sweetest Tomatoes
To harvest the sweetest tomatoes, it’s important to choose the right variety and pick them at the right time. Here are some tips:
Choose the right variety: Look for tomato varieties that are known for their sweetness, such as Sun Gold, Cherokee Purple, Brandywine, Yellow Pear and Black Cherry. These varieties are often heirloom tomatoes, which are known for their flavor and sweetness.
Look for ripe tomatoes: Tomatoes that are ripe and ready to pick will be firm to the touch, but not hard. They will also be fully colored and have a slight give when gently squeezed.
Harvest in the morning: The best time to harvest tomatoes is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before it gets too hot. This is when the sugars in the tomatoes are at their peak.
Use sharp shears or a knife: To harvest the tomatoes, use sharp shears or a knife to cut the stem about a quarter inch above the tomato. This will help to prevent damage to the fruit and reduce the risk of disease.
Store properly: Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and not in the refrigerator. Refrigeration can cause the tomatoes to lose their flavor and become mealy.
Sweet Tomato Recipes
Once you’ve harvested your sweet tomatoes, it’s time to enjoy them! Here are a few delicious sweet tomato recipes to try:
- Tomato Salad with Mozzarella and Basil: Slice sweet tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
- Sweet Tomato Jam: Combine diced sweet tomatoes, sugar and lemon juice in a pot and cook until the mixture thickens. Use the jam as a condiment for sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats.
- Grilled Sweet Tomatoes: Brush halved sweet tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat until charred and tender.
With these tips for growing and enjoying the sweetest tomatoes, you’ll be sure to have a bumper crop and plenty of delicious recipes to enjoy.
