Red Ripe Cooked Stewed Tomatoes
Description:
Red ripe cooked stewed tomatoes are a savory and nutritious vegetable ingredient commonly used in sauces, soups, stews, and many other dishes. These tomatoes are harvested at peak ripeness and slowly cooked to enhance their natural flavor, providing a deep, rich taste while retaining their beneficial nutrients. Stewed tomatoes are an excellent addition to a variety of meals, adding not only a burst of flavor but also a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Information per 100g:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 79 kcal |
| Protein | 1.96 g |
| Total Fat | 2.68 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.52 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13.05 g |
| Fiber | 1.7 g |
| Sugars | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 26.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.06 mg |
| Magnesium | 15.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 38.0 mg |
| Potassium | 247.0 mg |
| Sodium | 455.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.18 mg |
| Copper | 0.095 mg |
| Manganese | 0.193 mg |
| Selenium | 1.2 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 18.2 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.108 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.08 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.11 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.086 mg |
| Folate (B9) | 11.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 33.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
Stewed tomatoes are naturally free from common allergens like dairy, gluten, and nuts. However, due to their processing and preparation methods, it’s important to check for any added ingredients, such as preservatives or flavor enhancers, that may contain allergens. Always verify the product’s label if you have concerns regarding specific allergens.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan: Stewed tomatoes are suitable for vegan diets as they are plant-based and contain no animal products.
- Gluten-Free: This ingredient is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Low-Sodium Options: While stewed tomatoes can naturally be high in sodium, low-sodium versions are available for those managing salt intake.
- Kosher and Halal: Most commercially available stewed tomatoes meet kosher and halal dietary requirements, but it’s always advisable to check labels for certification.
Nutritional Insights & Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Red ripe stewed tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. They also provide significant amounts of potassium, which helps in maintaining fluid balance and proper muscle function.
- Low in Calories: With only 79 calories per 100g, stewed tomatoes can be a great addition to weight management diets.
- High in Antioxidants: The high Vitamin C content, combined with compounds like lycopene (responsible for the tomatoes’ rich color), makes stewed tomatoes beneficial for reducing oxidative stress and supporting heart health.
- Dietary Fiber: With 1.7g of fiber per 100g, stewed tomatoes can support digestive health and contribute to your daily fiber intake.
Cooking Tips & Advice:
Stewed tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into numerous dishes. Here are some ideas on how to best utilize this ingredient:
- Tomato Sauces: Stewed tomatoes serve as a fantastic base for homemade pasta sauces or pizza sauces, lending a smooth, rich texture.
- Soups and Stews: Adding stewed tomatoes to soups or stews enhances their flavor and adds a hearty, satisfying element to the dish.
- Casseroles: Use stewed tomatoes in vegetable or meat casseroles to add moisture and depth of flavor.
- Salsas and Dips: Incorporate stewed tomatoes into fresh salsas for a more cooked, savory version, or use them in dips for an added richness.
Conclusion:
Red ripe cooked stewed tomatoes are an incredibly useful pantry staple that brings both nutritional benefits and delicious flavor to a variety of dishes. Their versatility allows them to be used in an array of recipes, from sauces to soups and casseroles, making them an essential ingredient for any home cook. Rich in essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, these tomatoes provide a healthy boost to any meal, while also being a low-calorie option.
