Don’t let your tomatoes go to waste: Turn them into tasty tomato powder!

Tomatoes are a kitchen staple, but oversupply can sometimes be a problem for both farmers and consumers. The surplus often causes significant post-harvest losses, leaving farmers at a crossroads and consumers unable to enjoy their favorite tomato dishes. However, there is a solution that can benefit both parties: transform excess tomatoes into versatile tomato powder. In this article, we’ll discuss why making tomato powder is a sustainable solution and how to use this ingredient creatively in your culinary endeavors.

The problem: tomato surpluses and post-harvest losses

Farmers often find themselves with an oversupply of tomatoes, causing significant post-harvest losses. This surplus causes a significant part of the fruit to be wasted in the fields or in the markets. The root of the problem lies in the limited knowledge about the conservation and added value of tomatoes.

The consequences are clear: farmers lose more than half of their total tomato production, affecting their livelihoods and disrupting the global food supply chain. Addressing this problem is essential for the sustainable and efficient utilization of resources.

The Solution: Transform tomatoes into powder .

An innovative solution to this problem is the transformation of surplus tomatoes into tomato powder. This process not only helps avoid waste but also adds value to the product. Below we explain how you can make tomato powder:

Step 1: Select the best tomatoes

Start with high-quality, ripe tomatoes. Although you can use any variety, Roma tomatoes are usually preferred for their fleshiness and lower water content.

Step 2: Wash and cut the tomatoes into slices

Wash the tomatoes thoroughly, remove the stems and cut them into thin, even pieces. This will help speed up the drying process.

Step 3: Dehydrate the slices

You can use a food dehydrator, oven, or even the sun to dry the tomato slices. The key is to remove as much moisture as possible. The lower the moisture content, the longer the stored powder will last.

Step 4: Grind into powder

Once the tomato slices are completely dehydrated, use a chopper or blender to pulverize them into a fine powder. You now have your homemade tomato powder.

How to use tomato powder

Tomato powder is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations. Here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your kitchen:

1. Sauces and soups: < To make a quick tomato sauce or soup, simply mix tomato powder with hot water until you achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
2. Seasonings and dressings: Add tomato powder to spice mixes and dressings for meats, poultry and vegetables. It provides a rich tomato flavor that enhances your dishes.
3. Preparation:  Enhance the flavor of bread, rolls and cakes by adding tomato powder to the dough or smoothie.
4. Salad Dressings: Create a unique twist on salad dressings by including a pinch of tomato powder for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Instant Tomato Soup: < For a quick and tasty tomato soup, rehydrate tomato powder with hot water. It’s perfect for a quick meal.
6. Sauces and spreads: Mix tomato powder with dairy or vegetable alternatives to create delicious and unique sauces and spreads.
7. Marinades: < Combine tomato powder with other spices to make tasty marinades for meats, tofu or vegetables.
8. Snacks: < Sprinkle tomato powder over popcorn, chips or toasted nuts for tasty snacks.

Conclusion

By transforming leftover tomatoes into tomato powder, we can address the problem of surplus tomatoes, reduce post-harvest losses, minimize food waste, and enjoy the rich flavor of tomatoes all year round. With a shelf life of more than a year, tomato powder is a valuable addition to your pantry. So, the next time you find yourself with a surplus of tomatoes, consider making tomato powder and opening up a world of culinary possibilities.