Tomatoes are a popular and versatile fruit, used in a variety of dishes around the world. To ensure that you’re picking the best tomatoes, whether from your own garden or the supermarket, follow these 14 steps.

1. Know your tomato varieties: Understand the different types of tomatoes available, such as cherry, grape, beefsteak, and heirloom. Each has its unique characteristics and uses in recipes.

2. Assess the color: A ripe tomato should have vibrant and even coloring. Look for a deep red for most varieties, although some heirloom tomatoes may be green, yellow, or orange when ripe.

3. Check for firmness: Gently press the tomato with your thumb to test its firmness. A ripe tomato should be slightly firm without any noticeable soft spots or indentations.

4. Examine the skin: The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes, cracks, wrinkles, or bruises. Minor imperfections may not affect the taste but can indicate improper storage or handling.

5. Inspect for mold or rot: Avoid any tomatoes with signs of mold or rotting on their skin or around the stem area.

6. Smell the tomato: Ripe tomatoes will have a distinct earthy-sweet aroma near their stem end. The absence of smell may indicate that it is not fully ripe yet.

7. Choose vine-ripened tomatoes if possible: Tomatoes allowed to ripen on the vine tend to have a better flavor than those ripened off the vine.

8. Assess size and shape consistency: Similar-sized and shaped tomatoes in a batch indicate proper growth conditions and are less likely to have variations in flavor and texture.

9. Purchase from local farmers markets: Local farmers often offer fresher produce that’s picked at peak ripeness compared to commercial supermarkets.

10. Grow your own tomatoes: Growing your own tomatoes allows you to control their growth, harvest them at peak ripeness, and ensure that they are free from harmful chemicals or pesticides.

11. Store tomatoes correctly: To prolong the life of your tomatoes, keep them at room temperature away from direct sunlight and do not refrigerate unless overripe.

12. Know when to pick your homegrown tomatoes: In general, it’s best to pick tomatoes when they are fully colored and have a slight “give” when gently pressed.

13. Harvest homegrown tomatoes in the morning: Picking tomatoes in the cooler morning temperatures helps maintain their firmness and allows them to better retain their natural moisture content.

14. Use picked tomatoes promptly: To enjoy their optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to use freshly picked tomatoes within a few days.

By following these 14 steps, you’ll learn how to choose and enjoy perfectly ripe tomatoes every time. So whether using them for salads, sauces, or sandwiches – keep these tips in mind to guarantee a delicious tomato experience.