5 oz. can stewed
Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and vitamin C; also a good source of potassium and fiber from the tomato solids. The canning process preserves most nutritional compounds, particularly heat-stable lycopene.
About
Canned stewed tomatoes are tomatoes that have been cooked, peeled, and preserved in a can with added seasonings, herbs, and sometimes additional vegetables or spices. The tomatoes are typically harvested at peak ripeness, processed, and heat-treated to ensure shelf stability. The stewing process softens the fruit and allows flavors to meld, resulting in a ready-to-use ingredient with a tender texture and concentrated tomato flavor. Common varieties include Roma and other paste tomatoes selected for their low moisture and high solids content.
The standard 5 oz. can provides a convenient portion size, roughly equivalent to one medium fresh tomato or approximately 150 grams of tomato solids suspended in juice and seasonings.
Culinary Uses
Canned stewed tomatoes serve as a foundational ingredient in soups, stews, braises, and sauces throughout Mediterranean, Latin American, and American cuisines. They are commonly used in dishes such as chili, minestrone, gumbo, and curry-based preparations where their soft texture integrates readily into simmering liquids. The ingredient eliminates the need for peeling and cooking fresh tomatoes, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals and winter cooking when fresh tomatoes are unavailable or expensive. Their pre-seasoned formulation (typically with garlic, onion, celery, and herbs) reduces overall recipe preparation time while contributing depth of flavor to the finished dish.