Imagine a dish bursting with rich, sweet tomato flavor. That’s the magic whole canned tomatoes can bring to your cooking! But walk down the canned goods aisle, and you’re met with a wall of options. Which can holds the secret to your next amazing meal? It can feel like a guessing game, and a wrong choice can leave your sauces tasting bland or your stews a little off.
Choosing the best whole canned tomatoes shouldn’t be a culinary mystery. We’ve all been there, staring at labels, wondering about quality, taste, and what makes one can better than another. This post is here to clear up the confusion. We’ll break down what to look for, what to avoid, and how to pick the perfect can every time.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be a whole canned tomato pro! You’ll know how to spot the good stuff, understand the differences between brands, and feel confident in your choices. Get ready to unlock a new level of deliciousness in your kitchen, starting with the humble but mighty whole canned tomato.
Top Whole Tomatoes In Can Recommendations
- One 28 ounce can of Whole Peeled Tomatoes
- Some of your favorite Amazon Fresh products are now part of the Amazon Grocery brand! Although packaging may vary during the transition, the ingredients and product remain the same. Thank you for your continued trust in our brands
- No sugar added
- Authentic Italian Taste: Hand-picked and sun-ripened, our tomatoes deliver a sweet, rich flavor. Packed in a thick puree with basil, they're ideal for homemade pasta and pizza sauces, soups, stews, and more, a must-have for any home cook and perfect for chefs
- San Marzano Tomatoes: With thicker walls, fewer seeds, and lower acidity, San Marzano Tomatoes are the premier choice for any recipe. Our San Marzano tomatoes are certified to ensure their superior quality and authenticity
- Grown and Produced in Italy: Cento San Marzano Tomatoes are grown in the Sarnese Nocerino area of Italy. Our tomatoes are then processed in our facility within close proximity to the fields, allowing for the freshest and most flavorful San Marzano tomatoes
- The information below is per-pack only
- One 28 ounce can of Whole Peeled Tomatoes
- Some of your favorite Amazon Fresh products are now part of the Amazon Grocery brand! Although packaging may vary during the transition, the ingredients and product remain the same. Thank you for your continued trust in our brands
- 28 oz organic whole peeled tomatoes
- Kosher certified
- Non-GMO verified
- 28 oz whole peeled tomatoes
- Kosher certified
- Non-GMO verified
- TOP QUALITY & RATINGS - San Merican Tomatoes are considered a top choice by many professional chefs, food journalists, and home cooks. Top ratings in blind tests administered by the most respected food publications.
- BALANCED FLAVOR - Enjoy these perfectly peeled whole tomatoes, for a smooth, balanced flavor! Great for sauces, pizza, pasta, and a variety of other recipes!
- ICONIC BRAND - Our can is recognized by chefs and food lovers everywhere. Why? Because our taste and quality always deliver. Get yours today!
- Authentic Italian Taste: Hand-picked and sun-ripened, our tomatoes deliver a sweet, rich flavor. Packed in a thick puree with basil, they're ideal for homemade pasta and pizza sauces, soups, stews, and more, a must-have for any home cook and perfect for chefs
- San Marzano Tomatoes: With thicker walls, fewer seeds, and lower acidity, San Marzano Tomatoes are the premier choice for any recipe. Our San Marzano tomatoes are certified to ensure their superior quality and authenticity
- Grown and Produced in Italy: Cento San Marzano Tomatoes are grown in the Sarnese Nocerino area of Italy. Our tomatoes are then processed in our facility within close proximity to the fields, allowing for the freshest and most flavorful San Marzano tomatoes
- Authentic Italian Taste: Hand-picked and sun-ripened, our tomatoes deliver a sweet, rich flavor. Packed in a thick puree with basil, they're ideal for homemade pasta and pizza sauces, soups, stews, and more, a must-have for any home cook and perfect for chefs
- San Marzano Tomatoes: With thicker walls, fewer seeds, and lower acidity, San Marzano Tomatoes are the premier choice for any recipe. Our San Marzano tomatoes are certified to ensure their superior quality and authenticity
- Grown and Produced in Italy: Cento San Marzano Tomatoes are grown in the Sarnese Nocerino area of Italy. Our tomatoes are then processed in our facility within close proximity to the fields, allowing for the freshest and most flavorful San Marzano tomatoes
Your Guide to the Best Canned Whole Tomatoes
Canned whole tomatoes are a kitchen superhero. They are a versatile ingredient that can transform simple meals into delicious dishes. This guide helps you pick the best ones for your cooking adventures.
Why Choose Canned Whole Tomatoes?
Canned whole tomatoes offer convenience and consistent quality. They are picked at peak ripeness and preserved, so you can enjoy their fresh taste any time of the year. They are perfect for sauces, soups, stews, and so much more.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these features in mind:
- Whole, Peeled Tomatoes: This is the most important feature. You want tomatoes that are still whole and have their skins removed. This means they are less processed and have a better texture.
- Type of Tomato: San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the gold standard. They are a plum tomato variety that grows in Italy. They have fewer seeds and a sweeter, less acidic taste. Other good options include Roma or plum tomatoes.
- Packer/Brand: Some brands are known for their high quality. Look for brands that have a good reputation for using quality ingredients and careful canning processes.
- Ingredients: Simple is best. Ideally, the only ingredients should be whole tomatoes and tomato juice or puree. Some cans might have citric acid or calcium chloride added. Citric acid helps preserve the tomatoes and gives them a bit of tang. Calcium chloride helps keep the tomatoes firm so they don’t break apart too easily.
- Can Material: Most cans are made of steel. Look for cans that are free of dents or rust. Some cans are lined with BPA (Bisphenol A). While the amount of BPA is small, some people prefer to avoid it. Look for “BPA-free” lining if this is a concern.
Important Materials
The tomatoes themselves are the main material. Good quality tomatoes are firm, bright red, and have a sweet, slightly acidic flavor. The liquid they are packed in is usually just their own juice or a bit of tomato puree. This liquid adds flavor to your dishes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make canned whole tomatoes great or not so great:
- Peak Ripeness: Tomatoes picked when they are perfectly ripe have the best flavor and sweetness.
- Careful Canning: The way the tomatoes are processed and canned affects their texture and taste. Gentle handling prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Variety of Tomato: As mentioned, San Marzano tomatoes are often preferred for their superior taste and texture.
- Added Ingredients: While some additives are harmless, too many can mask the natural tomato flavor.
- Storage: Canned tomatoes can last a long time, but they are best used within a year or two of purchase.
User Experience and Use Cases
Canned whole tomatoes are incredibly easy to use. You can simply crush them with your hands for a rustic sauce, blend them for a smooth puree, or add them whole to your recipes.
Here are some popular ways to use them:
- Sauces: They are the base for classic marinara, bolognese, and pizza sauces.
- Soups and Stews: Add depth and flavor to minestrone, chili, or hearty vegetable soups.
- Braising: They are excellent for braising meats like chicken or pork.
- Shakshuka: A popular Middle Eastern and North African dish where eggs are poached in a spiced tomato sauce.
- Roasting: Roast them with garlic and herbs for a flavorful side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes San Marzano tomatoes special?
A: San Marzano tomatoes are a special Italian variety. They have a sweeter taste and fewer seeds than other tomatoes. They also have a denser texture, which makes them great for sauces.
Q: Can I use canned whole tomatoes in any recipe that calls for diced tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can. You can easily crush whole tomatoes with your hands or a fork to get a diced texture. This gives you more control over the size of the pieces.
Q: How long do canned whole tomatoes last?
A: Unopened canned whole tomatoes can last for 1-2 years past the best-by date. Once opened, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use them within 3-4 days.
Q: Do I need to rinse canned whole tomatoes?
A: Generally, you don’t need to rinse them. The juice they are packed in is full of flavor and can be used in your cooking.
Q: What is citric acid in canned tomatoes?
A: Citric acid is a natural acid found in citrus fruits. In canned tomatoes, it helps keep them safe and preserves their bright color and flavor.
Q: What is calcium chloride in canned tomatoes?
A: Calcium chloride is a salt that helps keep the tomato pieces firm. It stops them from becoming too soft or mushy when cooked.
Q: Are all canned whole tomatoes packed in juice?
A: Most are packed in their own juice or tomato puree. Some may have added water, but this is less common for whole tomatoes.
Q: Can I freeze canned whole tomatoes after opening?
A: Yes, you can freeze them. Transfer the opened tomatoes to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze them for up to 6 months.
Q: What is the difference between whole peeled tomatoes and crushed tomatoes?
A: Whole peeled tomatoes are intact tomatoes with skins removed. Crushed tomatoes have been processed into smaller pieces. Whole tomatoes give you more control over the texture of your dish.
Q: Where is the best place to store canned whole tomatoes?
A: Store unopened cans in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing them in extreme temperatures.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!