x 14½ to 16-ounce can tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are tomatoes that have been harvested, processed, and preserved in sealed metal containers, typically with added salt and sometimes citric acid or calcium chloride as preservatives. The standard 14.5 to 16-ounce can represents a widely used portion size in North American cooking, containing whole, diced, crushed, or sauce-style tomatoes depending on the product variety. Canned tomatoes are often picked at peak ripeness and processed within hours of harvest, which can preserve nutritional content and flavor despite the canning process. The acidity of tomatoes naturally facilitates preservation, making them shelf-stable for extended periods without refrigeration.

Common varieties include whole peeled tomatoes (San Marzano, Roma, or generic varieties), diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. The texture and consistency vary by processing method; whole tomatoes retain their shape and require crushing during cooking, while crushed varieties offer convenience for immediate use in sauces and soups.

Canned tomatoes are fundamental to countless global cuisines and serve as a pantry staple for quick meal preparation. They are essential in Italian cuisine (pasta sauces, risottos, soups), Spanish and Latin American cooking (salsas, stews, rice dishes), and Mediterranean preparations. The standard can size is convenient for recipes serving 4-6 people, making it ideal for curries, chilis, braises, shakshuka, and tomato-based soups. Because canned tomatoes are processed at peak ripeness, they often provide superior flavor and consistency to fresh tomatoes outside of tomato season. Their acidity and umami compounds make them excellent for developing depth in slow-cooked dishes, though they should be added early enough to allow flavors to meld.