Farm-ily,
It is TOMATO TIME
The Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are not just a staple in our summer shares; they are a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor.
Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with potassium and folate, tomatoes offer numerous health benefits.
They are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Consuming tomatoes regularly can also promote healthy skin and vision.
The Importance of Eating Organic
I know you know. It's one of the reasons you choose us. But as a fine reminder..
Choosing organic tomatoes means you're opting for produce grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
Organic farming practices enhance soil health, promote biodiversity, and reduce pollution.
By eating organic, you're not only protecting your health but also supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit our environment.
So please choose organic in all your food shopping-it benefits you and all of us.
Varieties of Tomatoes at Oak Spring Farm
Enjoying the juicy vine-ripened tomatoes? Let me tell you about some of the varieties you're experiencing.
- Black Krim: This heirloom variety from Crimea has a rich, smoky flavor and deep purple-red flesh.
- Cherokee Purple: Known for its sweet, complex flavor, this heirloom is a favorite for its dark, dusky hue and robust taste. These are on the Slow Food/Arc of Taste list.
- Valencia: Bright orange and bursting with a sweet, fruity flavor, Valencia tomatoes are perfect for adding a splash of color to your favorite dishes. They are meaty with few seeds.
- German Johnsons: These large, pink-red heirlooms are meaty and juicy, ideal for slicing and enjoying fresh.
Now, let's talk about one of my personal favorites:
- Gin Fizz: This gorgeous big yellow tomato with a bit of red is so sweet and juicy, it's my fav hyloom.
What’s a Hyloom? How is it Different from an Heirloom?
The term "hyloom" might be new to some of you. A "hyloom" is a hybrid heirloom tomato.
These are tomatoes that have been cross-bred from two different heirloom varieties to combine desirable traits from both.
While heirlooms are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations, hylooms offer the best of both worlds: the rich flavors and textures of heirlooms with the enhanced vigor and disease resistance of hybrids.
Enjoy these tomatoes in your salads, salsas, sandwiches, and more. They are a true taste of summer, grown with care and love at Oak Spring Farm.
Want more tomato talk? Read the tomato blog!
Happy eating!
