The first Brandywines of the season were ready this morning--well, perhaps they were ready a few days ago. I couldn't resist an early morning taste, so I dug into the largest tomato, which was, unsurprisingly, the first to appear on the vine a couple months ago.
Here's a quick summary of the "tasting":
Appearance: Some pulls in the skin and a few over-ripened areas. The former are likely the result of sporadic watering early on and then the deluge of rain the last few weeks--another lesson learned for late-season tomato tending.
Smell: Beautiful, zesty earthiness of a fresh tomato. Sweetness apparent.
Taste: Wonderfully sweet, with a balanced earthiness and a bit of smokiness. These two tastes taken together may be what others describe as the "wine-like" quality of the aptly named Brandywine, but I'll need a few more to confirm this conclusion.
Mouthfeel: While a few pieces were over-ripened by a great deal, the texture of the fruit is perfect. Firm enough to hold together when cut, yet delicate and soft.
Eat-ability: While these first two pickin's aren't blue ribbon quality in appearance, the taste is divine. I definitely see a tomato sandwich in my future this afternoon.
Bon appetit!
-Chauncey
We have had exccessive heat and rain this summer. Unfortunately I cannot say my tomatoes have been wonderful, prolific yes, but the skins have been extremely thick and tough. I think I will skin them and freeze for sauce in January. The skins on my cherry toamtoes have been splitting when they are barely ripe. The cherry tomatoes will be on a pizza tonght made with Trader Joe's crust. Wish me luck.
ReplyDeleteGood luck! A little late ; - )
ReplyDeleteThe skin on my Green Zebras has been a little thick, but they are still one of my favorite.
The Nygous are coming in strong (post to follow), but nothing beats the Pink Brandywine. I have one more coming in. Think I'll ferment the seeds for next year. Supposedly saving seeds of "low producers" gives you a head start for the following year, what with the plant being acclimated to your environs and all. Well see! -C