There are a few times when you may want to peel your Tomatoes before using them.  Some instances are:

 

PIZZA

TOMATO SAUCES, etc.

 

Tools Needed:

Vegetable Peeler (optional -see instructions below)

Saucepan

Bowl for Ice Water

Paring Knife

Cutting Board and Slicing Knife

 

1. If the Tomatoes are firm, they may be peeled with a serrated vegetable peeler but in most cases this will not work.
2. If your Tomatoes are very ripe, sometimes, just using your paring knife to peel off the skin maybe all you have to do.  Try it out first, then if this and/or #1 don’t work use the method below:

 

1. Bring a 1 or 2 quart pot of water to a boil.
2. Make a cross-hatch in the tops and bottoms of the Tomatoes.
3. Have a bowl of ice water ready.
4. Carefully place 2 -3 Tomatoes in the boiling water.  (place on a slotted spoon to gently lower into the water – the closer to the water you bring the Tomato before placing it in the bath, the less likely the water will splash on you)
5. Leave the Tomatoes in the boiling water for 1 -2 minutes (depending on their firmness.
6. Remove Tomatoes one at a time with a slotted spoon and place in the ice bath, just long enough to cool it down so they can be handled easily)
7. Remove from the ice bath and using the paring knife, pull down the skin.  If the skin doesn’t come off easily, return to the hot water for another 30 – 60 seconds.
8. Once all your Tomatoes have been peeled, proceed with the directions in your recipe.