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Farmstand note

Meet the Tomatoes: Black Krim, Big Beef, Cherry & Roma

We grow four tomatoes on our North Nashville urban farm, and each one has a job. Black Krim is the smoky slicer, Big Beef is the classic sandwich tomato, Cherry is the snack that never makes it inside, and Roma is your sauce and paste tomato. Here's how to pick the right one.

Meet the Tomatoes: Black Krim, Big Beef, Cherry & Roma

Black Krim

The one I'd hand a skeptic. Deep, almost purple at the shoulders, with a rich, slightly smoky, savory flavor - the opposite of a watery grocery tomato. Slice it thick, a little flaky salt, done. It's the tomato that turns "eh, tomatoes" people into regulars.

Big Beef

The workhorse. Big, round, classic red tomato flavor - this is your BLT and your burger tomato. If you grew up on a good summer tomato sandwich, this is that.

Cherry

Dangerous. Sweet, poppable, and honestly most of the ones I pick get eaten before they reach the stand. Great for salads, roasting, or just a bowl on the counter. Kids demolish them.

Roma

The kitchen tomato. Meatier, fewer seeds, less water - which makes it the one you want when you're cooking down sauce, salsa, or paste. If you can and preserve, buy these by the basket.

Which should I get?

Grab a Black Krim to eat this week, a couple Big Beefs for sandwiches, a handful of Cherry for the counter, and Romas if you're cooking. Or just build a basket and get one of each - that's what most folks do, and it's the best way to find your favorite.

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