Tomatoes are a popular ingredient in cooking and are often used in various dishes, including those on a keto diet.
However, the skin of tomatoes can be tough and not always pleasant to taste, which raises the question of whether to remove it.
There are several methods that allow you to easily peel tomatoes.
Why peel tomatoes?
The skin of tomatoes can be hard to digest for some people, which may cause stomach discomfort.
Additionally, in some recipes, especially sauces and soups, the skin can affect the texture of the dish.
Classic method using boiling water
- Make a shallow cross-shaped cut on the top of each tomato.
- Place the tomatoes in boiling water for 20-30 seconds.
- Quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- After cooling, the skin should easily come off the flesh.
Baking in the oven
Baking tomatoes is a method that not only helps to remove the skin but also enhances the flavor of the tomatoes.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the skin starts to wrinkle and darken.
- Cool and remove the skin by hand or with a knife.
Using a microwave
This method is suitable for quickly removing the skin when time is limited.
- Make small cross-shaped cuts on the top of each tomato.
- Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Cook on high power for 1-2 minutes, making sure not to overcook.
- Cool and peel off the skin.
Sources
- Freezing Tomatoes – National Center for Home Food Preservation
- Blanching Vegetables: National Center for Home Food Preservation
- Tomatoes and Other Seed-Bearing Vegetables: Safe Handling Practices for Consumers
- Two Approaches to Enhancing Tomato Flavor
- Preserving Locally Harvested Produce in School Meals
