Tomatoes, a culinary cornerstone, grace our tables in countless dishes. Whether it’s a hearty pasta sauce, a refreshing salsa, or a comforting soup, canned tomatoes provide a convenient and often more affordable alternative to fresh tomatoes. But navigating the canned tomato aisle can be surprisingly complex. With a multitude of brands and types vying for your attention, understanding the different can sizes is essential to ensure you purchase the right amount for your recipe and budget. This comprehensive guide will demystify the world of canned tomato sizes, helping you become a savvy shopper and a more efficient cook.
Understanding Standard Canned Tomato Sizes
The canning industry adheres to certain standard sizes, simplifying (somewhat!) the process of choosing the correct can. However, keep in mind that net weights can vary slightly between brands, so always double-check the label. Here, we break down the most common sizes you’ll encounter and what they’re typically used for.
The 6-Ounce Can (Approximately ¾ Cup)
This is the smallest size you’ll generally find. The 6-ounce can is often used for tomato paste. While you might find some crushed or diced tomatoes in this diminutive format, it’s less common. It’s perfect when you need just a small burst of tomato flavor without committing to a larger quantity.
Best Uses: Adding a concentrated tomato flavor to soups, stews, or sauces. Thickening sauces without adding significant liquid. Incorporating a small amount of tomato into dishes like chili.
The 14.5-Ounce Can (Approximately 1 ¾ Cups)
This is arguably the most versatile and widely available size. The 14.5-ounce can is a workhorse in the kitchen, suitable for a vast array of recipes. You’ll find diced, crushed, whole peeled, and stewed tomatoes in this size. Its moderate volume makes it an excellent choice for everyday cooking.
Best Uses: Sauces for pasta, pizza, and enchiladas. Soups, stews, and chilis. Dips and salsas. Casseroles and baked dishes.
The 15-Ounce Can (Approximately 1 7/8 Cups)
Often confused with the 14.5-ounce can, the 15-ounce size is practically identical in its applications. The small difference in volume is usually negligible in most recipes. Consider them interchangeable unless precision is critical.
Best Uses: Essentially the same as the 14.5-ounce can: Sauces, soups, stews, chilis, dips, casseroles.
The 28-Ounce Can (Approximately 3 ½ Cups)
This larger can offers a significant quantity of tomatoes, ideal for batch cooking or recipes that require a substantial tomato base. The 28-ounce can is a cost-effective option when you’re preparing meals for a crowd or want to have leftovers. You’ll commonly find crushed, whole peeled, and sometimes diced tomatoes in this size.
Best Uses: Large batches of pasta sauce or marinara. Hearty stews and chilis. Making homemade ketchup or tomato soup.
The 102-Ounce Can (Also Known as the #10 Can)
This is the behemoth of the canned tomato world. The 102-ounce can (approximately 13 cups) is primarily intended for foodservice operations, restaurants, and catering businesses. While you might find it in some warehouse stores, it’s not typically stocked in regular supermarkets. It’s a great option if you are making a large quantity of sauce to freeze or can yourself.
Best Uses: Large-scale cooking for restaurants and catering. Batch cooking for freezing or preserving. Making tomato juice or passata.
Types of Canned Tomatoes and Their Uses
Beyond size, understanding the different types of canned tomatoes is crucial for achieving the desired flavor and texture in your dishes. Each variety is processed differently, resulting in unique characteristics that lend themselves to specific culinary applications.
Whole Peeled Tomatoes
These tomatoes are typically peeled and packed in tomato juice or purée. They offer the most versatility, as you can easily crush, dice, or purée them yourself to achieve the desired consistency. They are often the best choice when you want to control the final texture of your dish.
Culinary Applications: Soups, stews, sauces where you want chunky or smooth textures. Roasting whole for a burst of intense flavor. Homemade tomato juice or passata.
Diced Tomatoes
Diced tomatoes are pre-cut into small pieces, saving you valuable prep time. They are often packed with tomato juice or purée, and some varieties include added herbs or spices. Consider the added flavorings when choosing diced tomatoes, as they can impact the overall taste of your recipe.
Culinary Applications: Salsas, chili, stews where a chunky texture is desired. Casseroles and baked dishes. Quick and easy pasta sauces.
Crushed Tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes offer a slightly coarser texture than tomato purée or sauce. They are typically made from whole tomatoes that have been crushed and packed in tomato juice. They provide a good balance of flavor and texture, making them a versatile option for various dishes.
Culinary Applications: Pasta sauces, pizza sauces. Soups and stews where a slightly chunky texture is preferred. Dips and spreads.
Tomato Purée
Tomato purée is a smooth, thick liquid made from cooked tomatoes that have been strained to remove seeds and skins. It has a concentrated tomato flavor and is often used to add body and richness to sauces and soups.
Culinary Applications: Adding body and flavor to sauces, soups, and stews. Thickening sauces without adding a lot of texture. Making tomato paste (by further reducing the purée).
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a highly concentrated tomato product made by cooking tomatoes for several hours to reduce their moisture content. It has a very intense tomato flavor and is used to add depth and richness to sauces, stews, and other dishes. It’s often sold in small cans or tubes.
Culinary Applications: Adding intense tomato flavor to sauces, stews, and soups. Thickening sauces. Adding color and richness to dishes like chili and braises.
Stewed Tomatoes
Stewed tomatoes are typically diced tomatoes that have been cooked with sugar, spices, and sometimes vegetables like bell peppers and onions. They have a slightly sweet and savory flavor and are often used in comfort food dishes.
Culinary Applications: Stews, casseroles, and baked dishes. Adding a touch of sweetness and spice to sauces. Serving as a side dish.
Choosing the Right Size Can for Your Recipe
Selecting the correct can size is not just about convenience; it’s also about minimizing waste and maximizing flavor. Here’s a practical guide to help you make the right choice.
Scaling Recipes: When doubling or halving a recipe, adjust the can size accordingly. If a recipe calls for a 14.5-ounce can and you’re doubling it, use a 28-ounce can.
Leftovers: If you consistently have leftover canned tomatoes, consider buying smaller cans or portioning out larger cans into freezer-safe containers.
Cost-Effectiveness: Larger cans are often more cost-effective per ounce, but only if you’ll use the entire can before it spoils. Consider your usage patterns and storage capabilities when making your decision.
Flavor Impact: Using too many tomatoes can overwhelm the other flavors in your dish, while using too few can result in a bland taste. Follow the recipe instructions carefully and adjust to taste as needed.
Factors Affecting Can Size Choice
Beyond the recipe itself, several factors can influence your choice of canned tomato size. Consider these aspects when making your purchase:
Storage Space: If you have limited pantry space, smaller cans may be a more practical choice.
Frequency of Use: If you use canned tomatoes frequently, buying larger cans can save you money in the long run.
Number of People You’re Cooking For: Adjust the can size based on the number of servings you need.
Availability: Not all can sizes are available in all stores. Check the availability of different sizes at your local grocery store before making your decision.
Tips for Storing and Using Canned Tomatoes
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintain the quality and safety of canned tomatoes. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Storage: Store unopened cans of tomatoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
After Opening: Once opened, transfer any unused tomatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. Use them within 5-7 days.
Freezing: Canned tomatoes can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
Checking for Spoilage: Discard any cans that are bulging, dented, or leaking. If the tomatoes smell off or have an unusual appearance, do not use them.
Acidity: Canned tomatoes are acidic, so avoid storing them in reactive metal containers like aluminum.
Beyond the Can: Other Tomato Products
While canned tomatoes are a staple, other tomato products offer unique flavors and textures. Consider exploring these options to expand your culinary repertoire:
Tomato Sauce (Jarred or Canned): A pre-made sauce, often seasoned with herbs and spices.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Oil-Packed or Dry): Intense, concentrated tomato flavor.
Tomato Juice: A refreshing beverage or ingredient for soups and sauces.
Tomato Paste in a Tube: Convenient for small amounts and easy to store.
Decoding the Label: Key Information to Look For
Reading the label on canned tomatoes can provide valuable information about the product’s quality and ingredients. Pay attention to these key details:
Net Weight: This indicates the total weight of the can’s contents.
Ingredients: Check for added sugar, salt, or preservatives.
Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you’re on a low-sodium diet.
“No Salt Added”: Look for this label if you prefer to control the amount of salt in your dish.
Organic Certification: If you prefer organic products, look for the USDA organic seal.
What are the most common can sizes for tomatoes I’ll find in a grocery store?
The most frequently encountered can sizes for tomatoes are 14.5-ounce, 15-ounce, and 28-ounce cans. You’ll typically find diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, whole peeled tomatoes, and tomato sauce in these sizes. Knowing these standard sizes helps you quickly estimate the amount you need for a recipe, especially when a recipe calls for “one can of tomatoes.”
Smaller cans, such as 6-ounce cans of tomato paste, and larger cans, like the 102-ounce cans often used in restaurants, are also available. However, for everyday cooking, the 14.5-ounce, 15-ounce, and 28-ounce options are your go-to choices. Keep in mind that slight variations in net weight might occur across different brands, so always check the label.
Why do different brands sometimes use slightly different can sizes for tomatoes?
Slight variations in can sizes for tomatoes from different brands often stem from manufacturing and marketing strategies. Brands might choose a slightly different size to position their product competitively, whether through subtle price differences or perceived value. Production line efficiencies and historical packaging choices can also influence the final can size.
Ultimately, these small differences usually don’t significantly impact the outcome of most recipes. While a recipe might call for a 14.5-ounce can, substituting a 15-ounce can will likely be negligible. However, if precision is crucial, such as in baking, you might consider measuring the tomatoes after opening the can.
What types of tomatoes are typically sold in cans, and how do the sizes relate to the tomato type?
Canned tomatoes are available in various forms, including whole peeled tomatoes, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. The can size often correlates with the tomato type and intended use. For instance, whole peeled tomatoes, frequently used for sauces and stews, are often found in larger 28-ounce cans.
Diced and crushed tomatoes, versatile ingredients for many dishes, commonly come in 14.5-ounce or 15-ounce cans. Tomato sauce, a fundamental ingredient, is also typically available in 15-ounce cans. Tomato paste, due to its concentrated nature, is usually sold in smaller 6-ounce cans. This packaging strategy ensures optimal usage and minimizes waste for consumers.
Are there large, industrial-sized cans of tomatoes available for commercial use?
Yes, large, industrial-sized cans of tomatoes are widely available for commercial use, primarily in restaurants, catering businesses, and food processing facilities. These bulk cans typically range from 102 ounces (approximately 6 pounds) to even larger sizes, catering to high-volume cooking and production needs. They offer a cost-effective solution for businesses requiring substantial amounts of tomatoes.
These larger cans often contain whole peeled tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, or tomato sauce, depending on the specific applications. Using these larger cans reduces packaging waste and streamlines the cooking process for commercial kitchens. They are typically sold through restaurant supply stores and wholesale distributors, not commonly found in standard grocery stores.
How should I store leftover canned tomatoes after opening the can?
Once you’ve opened a can of tomatoes and have leftovers, it’s crucial to store them properly to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage. Transfer the remaining tomatoes to an airtight container, preferably made of glass or BPA-free plastic. This prevents any metallic taste from transferring from the can to the tomatoes and ensures a tight seal.
Refrigerate the container immediately. Properly stored, leftover canned tomatoes should be safe to use for up to 5-7 days. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, discoloration, or mold, before using them. For longer storage, consider freezing the leftover tomatoes in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can I freeze canned tomatoes, and how does freezing affect their texture?
Yes, you can freeze canned tomatoes, and it’s a good way to preserve them for extended periods. Before freezing, transfer the tomatoes to a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Label the container with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Freezing will alter the texture of the tomatoes, making them softer and more watery once thawed. While the flavor remains intact, the changed texture makes them best suited for cooked applications like sauces, soups, and stews, rather than using them raw in salads or salsas where a firmer texture is desired. Use within 6-8 months for optimal quality.
Are there any specific can sizes that are better suited for certain recipes?
Yes, certain can sizes are more convenient for specific recipes based on their quantity requirements. For instance, if a recipe for pasta sauce calls for a large amount of tomatoes, using a 28-ounce can of crushed or whole peeled tomatoes can save time and effort compared to opening multiple smaller cans.
Smaller cans, like the 14.5-ounce or 15-ounce cans, are ideal for smaller batches of chili, soups, or stews where a large volume of tomatoes isn’t needed. Tomato paste, typically sold in 6-ounce cans, is perfect for adding concentrated tomato flavor and thickening sauces. Matching the can size to the recipe’s needs reduces waste and streamlines the cooking process.