The volcanic soil is believed to act as a filter for water impurities. Compared to the Roma Tomatoes with which most people are familiar, Marzano tomatoes are thinner and pointier in shape. The flesh is much thicker with fewer seeds, and the taste is much stronger, less sweet and less acidic. Many people describe the taste as bittersweet, like high-quality chocolate.
Because of their high quality and origins near Naples, San Marzano tomatoes have been designated as the only tomatoes that can be used for Vera Pizza Napoletana (true Neapolitan pizza).
Through commercial production of the San Marzano variety is most closely associated with Italy, seeds for the variety are available worldwide, often labeled as an heirloom variety, frequently imported from Italy, and sold at a premium over more common varieties. The San Marzano vines are indeterminate and have a somewhat longer season than other paste tomato varieties, making them more suitable for warmer climates.
The name denotes both a point of origin and a variety of tomato. Canned Marzano Tomatoes are grown in Italy in compliance with Italian law will have the EU and DOP emblem on the label.
As is typical of heirloom plants, San Marzano is an open-pollinated variety that breeds true from generation to generation, making seed saving practical for the home gardener or farmer.
I wanted to shares the history of this succulent and delicious native Italian fruit with all of you. I also wanted to remind after our tomato season is over,
there is no reason to settle for pale tasteless tomatoes in your autumn and winter salads.
These delicious tomatoes will crown any cold winter weather salad with Neapolitan sunshine.
