How to Peel Tomatoes

Some recipes call for tomato skins to be removed before adding to the cooking process. Removing the skin helps both purees and sauces to become more uniform. Leaving the skin on could result in hunks of unpleasant looking skin being left in the finished dish. These hunks could also change the flavor of the recipe as well. So if your recipe calls for tomato skin removal, you have come to the right place. Today we will discuss How to Peel Tomatoes.

The first step you take is to cut an X at the bottom of each tomato you want to peel. We have removed the skin without using the x. However, we have found that having the x cut makes it easier to peel the tomato. If you forget the x step, do not worry. The skin will still peel once the process has been completed.

Now, fill a pot with enough water to cover the tomatoes you want to peel. Do not add the tomatoes at this step. Instead, cover the pot of water and boil. While the water boils, fill a bowl with ice water. We will get to the ice water in a moment.; we just want you to be prepared once the tomatoes are ready.

Here is Where the Magic Happens

When the water begins to boil, remove the pot lid and carefully place your tomatoes into the boiling water.

Boiling Tomatoes to Remove Skins

In less than a minute, you will notice that the tomato skins are beginning to show signs of cracking. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tomatoes at the one minute mark. One minute of cooking time is all that is required.

Submerge the tomatoes into the bowl of ice water. Now leave the tomatoes in this water for about five minutes. After five minutes, the tomatoes will be firm and cool enough to handle. Tip, if for some reason you forget the ice water, or for some reason ice water is not available, you can still peel the tomatoes. The ice water does make the process easier for sure.

Tomato Skins Ready to be Removed

Next, you may start to remove the loose skin with your fingers; it’s that easy. Once peeled, discard the skins and continue the recipe that required the skin removal.

Tomato Skin Removed

Now you know How to Peel Tomatoes.

Happy Eatin’

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