Sugary Cherry Tomatoes
Estimated Inventory, 12 ct : 0
Description/Taste
Sugary cherry tomatoes are oval-shaped fruits with firm, thin, reddish-pink skin and a pointed blossom end. They grow about an inch wide and 1.5 inches long, weighing an average of 1 to 2 ounces. Sugary cherry tomatoes are juicy with an exceptionally sweet flavor, measuring 9.5 on the Brix scale of sugar content, while the average Brix measurement for tomatoes in general is around 5. The plant is semi-determinate, and hence is more compact than other varieties, although it is still highly productive and will continue to set huge clusters of fruit throughout the growing season.
Seasons/Availability
Sugary cherry tomatoes are available year-round with a peak season in the summer months.
Current Facts
Tomatoes are botanically referred to as Solanum lycopersicum or Lycopersicon esculentum, and are categorized in subgroups that represent variations within the tomato species. Therefore cherry tomatoes are more specifically called Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme. Tomatoes can be further classified as either heirlooms or hybrids. Hybrids like the Sugary cherry tomato are the result of crossing two different varieties.
Nutritional Value
Cherry tomatoes are high in fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C, and they also have good amounts of vitamin B-6 and potassium. Tomatoes are especially known for containing the antioxidant compound lycopene, which has been studied for its ability to help fight certain types of cancer and heart disease.
Applications
With their distinctive sweet taste, Sugary cherry tomatoes are best eaten fresh, but can also be used in cooked applications like sautéing, grilling, baking, or stewing. They can be used in salads and pastas, or made into a sweet compote or jam. They pair well with avocado, watermelon, cucumbers, chilies, soft cheeses, and fresh herbs like mint and basil. Store Sugary cherry tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight for 2 to 3 days, after which refrigeration can slow the process of decay. Bring chilled cherry tomatoes to room temperature before serving raw for best flavor.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
In 2005, Sugary cherry tomatoes were chosen as an All-America Selections (AAS) National Winner. AAS is an independent non-profit organization that tests new home-garden varieties through anonymous trials by volunteer horticulture professionals.
Geography/History
Cherry tomatoes are descendants of the wild tomato, which traces back millions of years to coastal South America. They actually predate large tomato varieties, as the first cultivated tomato fruits were the size of berries and housed only two seed cavities. Sugary cherry tomatoes are a 21st century hybrid variety bred by Known-You Seed Co., which is based in Taiwan and was established in 1968 by Mr. Wun-Yu Chen.
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