Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a kitchen chameleon—equally at home as the star of a dish or as a supporting flavour bomb. They're juicy, tangy, and bursting with umami, bringing brightness and depth to everything from salads and toast to stews and sauces. Whether you're slicing fresh ones for a salad or cracking open a tin for a quick pasta sauce, tomatoes are a go-to for adding instant flavour and colour.
Why is it good for ADHD?
As well as being versaile in flavour, tomatoes are versatile in ADHD nutrition too:
- Rich in Vitamins: Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K, and folate, supporting immune function, heart health, brain health and cell growth. All vital for busy ADHD bodies and brains.
- High in Antioxidants: They contain lycopene, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against various diseases.
- Aids Digestion: With about 1.5 grams of fiber per average-sized tomato, they support digestive health and help maintain steady energy levels.
Different Types & Cuts
- Cherry Tomatoes: Small, sweet, and perfect for salads or roasting.
- Beef Tomatoes: Large and meaty, ideal for slicing into sandwiches or grilling.
- Canned Tomatoes: A pantry staple for sauces and stews; Italian varieties like San Marzano are prized for their rich flavour.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrated and intense, great for deepening the flavour of soups, stews, and sauces.
Buying Tips
- Fresh Tomatoes: Choose firm, vibrant tomatoes with smooth skin. Heritage tomatoes can come in all different shapes, sizes and colours. For the best flavour, buy local and in-season. It genuinely makes a huge difference to the quality. Avoid cheap salad tomatoes if you need something thats the star of the show. They are often flavourless.
- Canned Tomatoes: Look for whole or chopped tomatoes with no added sugars or preservatives. Italian brands are often preferred for their quality.
- Passata: Passata is strained whole tomatoes. Look for ones with only tomatoes as the main ingredient.
- Tomato Paste: Opt for pure tomato paste without added ingredients for the most versatility. Buy in atuberather than a can for longer shelf life.
Storage Tips
- Fresh Tomatoes: Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can dull their flavour.
- Canned Tomatoes: Keep unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer leftovers to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Tomato Paste: After opening, store in the refrigerator and use within a week, or freeze in portions for longer storage.
Prep Tips
- Salads: Slice fresh tomatoes and combine with herbs, cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick salad.
- Sauces: Simmer canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, and herbs for a simple and delicious sauce.
- Roasting: Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil and garlic in the airfryer to concentrate their sweetness and add depth to dishes.
Top Flavour Bomb Combos
- Herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme complement tomatoes beautifully.
- Cheese: Pair with mozzarella, feta, or parmesan for a classic combination.
- Spices: Add chilli flakes or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can enhance their natural tanginess.
Related Recipes
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