Gather Your Ingredients:
- Fresh, ripe tomatoes
- Boiling water
- Ice water bath
- Sharp knife
- Slotted spoon
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
Start by washing your tomatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully score a small “X” at the bottom of each tomato. This will help the skin peel off easily later on.
Step 2: Blanch the Tomatoes
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the scored tomatoes into the boiling water using a slotted spoon. Leave them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until you notice the skin starting to wrinkle and loosen.
Step 3: Ice Water Bath
Using the slotted spoon, quickly transfer the blanched tomatoes into a bowl filled with ice water. Leave them in the icy water for about 3-4 minutes to cool down and stop the cooking process. This will also make the tomatoes easier to handle.
Step 4: Peel the Tomatoes
Once the tomatoes have cooled down, remove them from the ice water bath and gently peel off the skin. The skin should easily slip off at the “X” you scored earlier. If you encounter any difficulty, use a knife to help loosen the skin.
Step 5: Core and Seed the Tomatoes (Optional)
If desired, you can now remove the tough core and seeds from the peeled tomatoes. Simply cut the tomato in half horizontally and gently squeeze out the seeds and excess juice. This step is optional and can vary based on your recipe requirements.
Step 6: Store or Use
Once you have peeled and cored the tomatoes (if desired), you can use them immediately in your recipe or store them for future use. If storing, transfer the peeled tomatoes into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze them for later use.
So there you have it! By following these simple steps, you can easily make your own peeled tomatoes from scratch. The vibrant flavor and superior quality of homemade tomatoes will elevate your culinary creations to the next level. Say goodbye to store-bought cans and embrace the freshness of homemade peeled tomatoes!