
The tomato has really developed a name for itself. Nutritionists
hail it as a disease fighter. Hollywood made a movie about the fried
green variety. Chefs tout them as a versatile ingredient that
doesn't lose its flavor when cooked. It has been called the "Love
Apple" and the "Apple of Paradise." In the 18th century, it was
rumored that tomatoes were poisonous.
What can we do with all the big, juicy "love apples" appearing in
backyard gardens, grocery stores and farmer's markets? There are
countless possibilities. Let the Web be your bridge to tomato mania.
Seedy Background
Before you start whipping up tasty dishes, wouldn't it be nice to
know the full history and myths surrounding the "Apple of Paradise?"
The Internet Shrine
to the Tomato provides an
interesting retrospective and lets you vote for your favorite tomato
variety. The site insists that the tomato is a fruit, despite a 1893
U.S. Supreme Court decision that ruled that the round, red icon was
indeed a vegetable.
Several tomato-growing states have councils, committees and Web
pages dedicated to their tomatoes. California
Tomato Tips and New Jersey
Tomato Council offer growing tips,
educational information, nutritional facts and pretty much every
thing you've ever wanted to know about tomatoes but were afraid to
ask.
Tomatoes on the Table
Looking for something to do with all those tomatoes?
Year-Round Appeal
More tomatoes than you can handle? Start saving for winter. Canned or
frozen tomatoes will add a burst of flavor to your dishes for months to come.
Consult the Tomato Freezing Project
for freezing tips.
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