Tomatoes – which types to grow and why
Tomatoes vary hugely in size, flavour and use. Choosing the right type makes a big difference to both growing and cooking.
Cherry tomatoes
- Small, sweet, easy to grow
- Best for salads and snacking
A typical example is the pictured cherry grape tomato (more details)
This type of tomato is very popular in restaurants (especially French ones) as an edible garnish cooked on the vine.
Salad tomatoes
- Medium size, balanced flavour
- Ideal for everyday use
Beefsteak tomatoes
- Large, meaty fruits
- Great for slicing and cooking
Plum / sauce tomatoes
- Dense flesh, low water
- Perfect for sauces
Typical examples are:
- Roma tomato – The classic Italian tomato, ideal for sauces and Italian recipes.
- San Marzano Tomato – great for sauces.
Specialist tomatoes
- Often called tomato but actually specialist fruits.
- Ideal for some international dishes.
Typical example:
- Tomatillo – Key ingredient in Mexican recipes, tastes like a citrusy green apple
