Peeling & Seeding Tomatoes

Many recipes call for peeled and seeded tomatoes. Some recipes are enhanced by removing the outer skin and/or removing the juicy seeds in the center. It is quite simple to do and does not need to deter you from making a recipe simply because of these extra steps.

To peel a tomato:

Add enough water to a saucepan, so that when the tomatoes are added they are completely covered with water. Bring water to a boil. Cut a small X in the bottom of each tomato, being careful not to cut out any tomato flesh. Gently ease the tomatoes into the boiling water. Leave tomatoes in the water for about 15-30 seconds. Lift them out with a slotted spoon and drop them into a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process. Pull the skin off with the tip of a knife. If the skin continues to stick, return the tomato to the boiling water for about another 10 seconds.

To seed a tomato:

Cut the tomato in half crosswise (halfway between stem and bottom of tomato). Squeeze each half gently, cut side down, over a bowl or strainer. Under a gentle stream of water scoop out any remaining seeds with your finger.

-Glutenfreeda