Buzz
Tomato season has arrived, bringing heirlooms to farmer’s markets, and gardens in the northern regions are coming alive with these summer gems. If you're looking for a fast method to prep tomatoes for homemade sauces, refreshing gazpacho, or simply prefer to skip the skin, all you need is a flame. The skin will peel right off in no time.
How to Remove Tomato Skins with Your Stove
This method is a quick alternative to the usual boil-and-peel technique. As suggested by J. Kenji López-Alt from Serious Eats, just use an open flame to char the tomatoes. Score the bottom of each tomato with an “X” using a knife, then grab some long metal tongs to hold the tomato over a gas burner. Be sure to use an oven mitt to protect your hands from the hot tongs. The flame causes the moisture beneath the skin to evaporate, causing the skin to separate from the flesh. A mini blowtorch works just as well for this method.
After you've charred most of the tomato’s skin, rinse it under cold running water. You’ll see the “X” you made has loosened and might even start peeling off on its own. Use a paring knife to gently remove the skin starting at the “X” and work your way around the entire tomato.
Essential Tools for Torching Tomatoes:
Silicone Tip Kitchen Tong Set
Victorinox Serrated Paring Knife
Henckels Utility Knife Set
If your tomatoes pick up a little charring from the flames, don’t worry—it can add a rich, roasted flavor to your tomatoes. You can even intentionally char them and leave some of the burnt skin to enhance the smoky taste in your final dish. Try using those charred tomatoes for a smoky salsa or toss them into a pot of chili.
