Tomato 'San Marzano'
San Marzano tomatoes, often hailed as the gold standard for sauce and paste tomatoes, have earned a legendary status in the culinary world. Originating from the San Marzano region in Italy, these elongated plum tomatoes are renowned for their sweet, robust flavor, low acidity, and thick flesh. Recognized by their distinctive shape, San Marzano tomatoes boast a pointed tip and fewer seeds, making them an ideal choice for creating rich and flavorful sauces, salsas, and canned tomatoes. Their exquisite taste, combined with a tender texture, has made San Marzano tomatoes a favorite among chefs, home cooks, and tomato enthusiasts alike.
What sets San Marzano tomatoes apart is not only their exceptional flavor but also their unique growing conditions. True San Marzano tomatoes are traditionally cultivated in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, benefiting from the region's rich mineral content. The tomatoes thrive in warm, Mediterranean climates, requiring ample sunlight and well-draining soil to reach their full potential. Characterized by their elongated shape and fewer seeds, San Marzano tomatoes are often sought after for their ability to produce thick, flavorful sauces that adhere to pasta perfectly, making them a staple in Italian cuisine and beyond.
In addition to their culinary reputation, San Marzano tomatoes have earned a designation as a protected designation of origin (PDO) product in the European Union. This recognition emphasizes the importance of the tomato's origin in the San Marzano region, ensuring that tomatoes labeled as San Marzano meet specific quality standards. Whether enjoyed fresh in salads or transformed into the base of a velvety pasta sauce, San Marzano tomatoes continue to be cherished for their exquisite taste, culinary versatility, and the authentic essence they bring to a wide range of dishes.
What sets San Marzano tomatoes apart is not only their exceptional flavor but also their unique growing conditions. True San Marzano tomatoes are traditionally cultivated in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, benefiting from the region's rich mineral content. The tomatoes thrive in warm, Mediterranean climates, requiring ample sunlight and well-draining soil to reach their full potential. Characterized by their elongated shape and fewer seeds, San Marzano tomatoes are often sought after for their ability to produce thick, flavorful sauces that adhere to pasta perfectly, making them a staple in Italian cuisine and beyond.
In addition to their culinary reputation, San Marzano tomatoes have earned a designation as a protected designation of origin (PDO) product in the European Union. This recognition emphasizes the importance of the tomato's origin in the San Marzano region, ensuring that tomatoes labeled as San Marzano meet specific quality standards. Whether enjoyed fresh in salads or transformed into the base of a velvety pasta sauce, San Marzano tomatoes continue to be cherished for their exquisite taste, culinary versatility, and the authentic essence they bring to a wide range of dishes.
San Marzano tomatoes, known for their exceptional flavor and culinary versatility, thrive under specific growing conditions. Here are general guidelines for cultivating San Marzano tomatoes:
- Sunlight:
- Provide full sunlight for San Marzano tomatoes. These tomatoes flourish in sunny conditions, so ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Temperature:
- San Marzano tomatoes prefer warm temperatures. Plant them after the last frost date in your region and ensure that both soil and air temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C). These tomatoes are especially sensitive to frost.
- Soil:
- Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. San Marzano tomatoes thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amending the soil with compost before planting can enhance fertility.
- Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Water at the base of the plants to prevent wetting the foliage, which can contribute to diseases. However, avoid waterlogged conditions, as tomatoes are susceptible to root diseases in overly wet soil.
- Support:
- San Marzano tomatoes benefit from support, especially because they are indeterminate varieties. Staking or caging helps keep the plants upright and supports the weight of the fruit, preventing them from touching the ground.
- Fertilization:
- Use a balanced fertilizer or one specifically formulated for tomatoes. Follow the recommended application rates on the product label. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to lush foliage at the expense of fruit production.
- Pruning:
- While not strictly necessary, some gardeners choose to prune indeterminate tomato varieties like San Marzano. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves and prune sparingly to encourage good air circulation.
- Harvesting:
- San Marzano tomatoes are typically ready for harvest when they reach their full color and are slightly soft to the touch. Harvest regularly to encourage the plant to continue producing.
San Marzano Tomato Basil Soup
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz each) San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Croutons or crusty bread for serving
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add San Marzano Tomatoes:
- Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes with their juice. Break the whole tomatoes into smaller pieces using a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices.
- Season and Simmer:
- Add vegetable broth, chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious with hot liquids.
- Optional Creamy Version:
- If you prefer a creamy soup, stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Tomato Basil Soup into bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil. Serve with croutons or crusty bread on the side.