Purple tomatoes are a unique and fascinating addition to any garden. While most people are familiar with the classic red tomato varieties, purple tomatoes offer a range of colors and flavors that are sure to impress. From deep, dark purple to light lavender hues, these fruits are not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients.
There are many different purple tomato varieties available, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some, like the Cherokee Purple and Black Krim, are heirloom varieties that have been around for centuries. Others, like the Indigo Rose and Purple Bumble Bee, are relatively new hybrids that have been developed in recent years. No matter which variety you choose, growing purple tomatoes is sure to be a rewarding experience.
History of Purple Tomato Varieties
Purple tomatoes have a long and fascinating history. They are a type of heirloom tomato that have been around for centuries. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the history of purple tomato varieties and some of the most popular types.
One of the most well-known purple tomato varieties is the Cherokee Purple. This tomato has a rich, sweet flavor and is often used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. It is believed to have originated with the Cherokee people of the southeastern United States.
Another popular type of purple tomato is the Black Krim. This tomato has a deep, dark color and a complex, smoky flavor. It is believed to have originated in the Black Sea region of Russia.
The Paul Robeson is another popular variety of purple tomato. This tomato has a deep, reddish-purple color and a rich, sweet flavor. It is named after the famous African-American actor and singer.
Other popular types of purple tomatoes include the Purple Bumble Bee, the Purple Russian, the Rosella, the Marizol Purple, the Purple Calabash, the Beefsteak Tomato, the Mortgage Lifter, the Evan’s Purple Pear, the Rosella Tomato, the Arkansas Traveler, the Owen’s Purple, the Brad’s Black Heart, the Aunt Ruby’s German Green, the Black Prince, the Costoluto Genovese, the German Johnson, the Nebraska Wedding, the Striped German, the Speckled Roman, the Celebrity Tomato, the Early Girl Tomato, the Roma Tomato, and the Better Boy Tomato.
Overall, purple tomatoes are a fascinating and delicious type of heirloom tomato. They have a rich history and are beloved by many for their unique flavor and color.
Health Benefits of Purple Tomatoes
Purple tomatoes are a type of genetically modified produce that have been developed to have higher anthocyanin levels than regular tomatoes. Anthocyanins are a type of antioxidant that can provide numerous health benefits. In fact, studies have shown that purple tomatoes may have more health benefits than regular tomatoes.
Here are some of the potential health benefits of purple tomatoes:
Rich in Nutrients
Purple tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients that are vital for good health. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy skin, boosting the immune system, and promoting good digestion.
High in Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are a type of antioxidant that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Studies have shown that purple tomatoes have higher levels of anthocyanins than regular tomatoes. These compounds give the tomatoes their distinctive purple color and may provide additional health benefits.
May Promote Heart Health
Anthocyanins have been shown to have a positive effect on heart health. They can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. These benefits can help reduce the risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Some studies have suggested that anthocyanins may have anti-cancer properties. They can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells and may even induce cancer cell death.
While more research is needed in this area, the high levels of anthocyanins in purple tomatoes make them a promising food for cancer prevention.
In conclusion, purple tomatoes are a healthy and nutritious food that can provide numerous health benefits. They are rich in essential nutrients, high in anthocyanins, and may help promote heart health and prevent cancer.
Different Shapes and Colors of Purple Tomatoes
Purple tomatoes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small cherry tomatoes to large beefsteak varieties. The color of the tomatoes can range from a deep purple to a dark red with purple hues. Here are some popular varieties of purple tomatoes and their unique characteristics:
Black Beauty
Black Beauty is a medium-sized tomato with a deep purple-black skin. The flesh is juicy and has a rich, sweet flavor. This variety is a determinate type and produces fruit in about 75 days.
Indigo
Indigo tomatoes have a dark purple skin and a green shoulder. The flesh is a deep red with a sweet and tangy flavor. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 80 days to mature.
Purple Russian
Purple Russian tomatoes have a purple-black skin and flesh. The fruit is medium-sized and oval-shaped, with a sweet and slightly acidic flavor. This variety is also an indeterminate type and takes about 70-80 days to mature.
Carbon
Carbon tomatoes have a dark purple-red skin and a rich, smoky flavor. The fruit is large and meaty, with a juicy texture. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 80-85 days to mature.
Purple Boy
Purple Boy tomatoes have a deep purple-red skin and a sweet, juicy flavor. The fruit is medium-sized and has a slightly flattened shape. This variety is a determinate type and produces fruit in about 70 days.
Indigo Rose
Indigo Rose tomatoes have a dark purple-black skin and a red flesh. The fruit is small and has a sweet and fruity flavor. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 75-80 days to mature.
Purple Reign
Purple Reign tomatoes have a deep purple skin and a sweet, fruity flavor. The fruit is medium-sized and has a slightly flattened shape. This variety is a determinate type and produces fruit in about 75 days.
Wine Jug
Wine Jug tomatoes have a deep purple skin and a sweet, tangy flavor. The fruit is large and has a slightly flattened shape. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 80-85 days to mature.
Indigo Ruby
Indigo Ruby tomatoes have a dark purple-red skin and a sweet, juicy flavor. The fruit is medium-sized and has a slightly flattened shape. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 75-80 days to mature.
Rosella
Rosella tomatoes have a deep purple skin and a sweet, tangy flavor. The fruit is medium-sized and has a slightly flattened shape. This variety is an indeterminate type and takes about 75-80 days to mature.
In conclusion, purple tomatoes come in a variety of shapes and colors, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. Whether you prefer a sweet and fruity taste or a rich and smoky flavor, there is a purple tomato variety out there for everyone.
Flavors of Purple Tomatoes
Purple tomatoes come in a wide variety of flavors, from sweet and tangy to bold and complex. Here are some of the most popular and interesting purple tomato varieties and their flavor profiles:
- Cherokee Purple: This heirloom tomato has a rich, smoky flavor with a sweet aftertaste. It’s one of the most popular purple tomatoes and is great for slicing and eating fresh.
- Black Beauty: This tomato has a deep, complex flavor with a hint of sweetness. It’s great for salads and sandwiches and is also good for cooking.
- Purple Russian: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a slightly tart finish. It’s great for eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Carbon: This tomato has a rich, meaty flavor with a hint of sweetness. It’s great for slicing and eating fresh, and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Green Zebra: This tomato has a tangy, sweet flavor with a crisp texture. It’s great for salads and sandwiches and is also good for cooking.
- Black Krim: This tomato has a rich, smoky flavor with a sweet aftertaste. It’s great for slicing and eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Chocolate Cherry: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a hint of chocolate. It’s great for snacking and also makes a tasty addition to salads.
- Black Sea Man: This tomato has a rich, smoky flavor with a slightly sweet finish. It’s great for slicing and eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Indigo Apple: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a slightly tart finish. It’s great for eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Black from Tula: This tomato has a rich, smoky flavor with a slightly sweet finish. It’s great for slicing and eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Dwarf Wild Fred: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a slightly tart finish. It’s great for eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Green Striped: This tomato has a tangy, sweet flavor with a crisp texture. It’s great for salads and sandwiches and is also good for cooking.
- Pink and Black: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a slightly tart finish. It’s great for eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
- Brandywine: This tomato has a sweet, fruity flavor with a slightly tart finish. It’s great for eating fresh and also makes a tasty sauce.
Overall, purple tomatoes are a unique and flavorful addition to any garden or dish. With so many varieties to choose from, there’s sure to be a purple tomato that suits your taste preferences.
Growing and Caring for Purple Tomatoes
Growing and caring for purple tomatoes is similar to growing other tomato varieties. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your purple tomato plants thrive.
Determinate vs Indeterminate Varieties
Purple tomatoes come in both determinate and indeterminate varieties. Determinate varieties grow to a certain height and stop growing, while indeterminate varieties continue to grow and produce fruit until frost. Consider the space you have available and your gardening goals when choosing which variety to grow.
Choosing Seeds
When selecting purple tomato seeds, consider whether you want open-pollinated or hybrid tomatoes. Open-pollinated tomatoes are pollinated naturally, while hybrid tomatoes are created by crossing two different varieties. Wild Boar Farms is a popular source for unique and flavorful purple tomato seeds.
Disease Resistance
Disease resistance is an important factor to consider when choosing which purple tomato variety to grow. Look for varieties that are resistant to common tomato diseases like Fusarium and Verticillium wilt.
Dwarf Varieties
If you have limited space, consider growing a dwarf variety of purple tomato. These plants grow to a smaller size and produce smaller fruit, making them perfect for container gardening or small gardens.
Beefsteak Type
If you are looking for a purple tomato that is similar in size and flavor to a beefsteak tomato, consider growing the Cherokee Purple variety. This indeterminate variety produces large, flavorful fruit that can weigh up to 1 pound each.
Overall, growing and caring for purple tomatoes is a rewarding experience. With a little bit of knowledge and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of flavorful and unique tomatoes.
Cooking with Purple Tomatoes
Purple tomatoes are not only visually stunning but also delicious and versatile in the kitchen. Here are some ideas for using them in your cooking:
Salads
Purple tomatoes make a colorful addition to any salad. Slice them thinly and mix them with other colorful vegetables like red onions, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Add some crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing and healthy salad.
Salsas and Dips
Purple tomatoes add a unique flavor and color to salsas and dips. Try making a salsa with purple tomatoes, red onions, jalapenos, and cilantro. Or blend them into a creamy dip with Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice.
Sauces
Purple tomatoes can be used to make a flavorful tomato sauce. Simmer them with garlic, onion, and herbs like basil and oregano. Use the sauce to top pasta or as a base for pizza.
Canning
If you have an excess of purple tomatoes, consider canning them to preserve them for later use. Follow proper canning techniques to ensure safety and freshness.
Tomato Sandwiches
There’s nothing quite like a classic tomato sandwich, and purple tomatoes add a unique twist. Layer sliced purple tomatoes on bread with mayonnaise, lettuce, and bacon for a delicious and colorful sandwich.
Overall, purple tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes and add a pop of color and flavor to any meal.
