cherry tomatoes
Organic Gardening

Orange Tomatoes Varieties You Need in Your Garden

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Orange tomatoes bring both color and flavor to your garden. These vibrant tomatoes are known for their low acidity and sweet taste, making them a favorite among many gardeners and chefs. Varieties like the Amana Orange are especially popular for their large size and meaty texture, which can add a burst of flavor to your dishes.

When choosing an orange tomato variety, you’ll find plenty of options. Some are heirloom types, while others are modern hybrids bred for disease resistance and fast growth. Whether you’re looking to grow a hefty beefsteak tomato or a juicy cherry tomato, there’s an orange tomato variety perfect for your garden.

Growing these tomatoes isn’t just about adding beauty to your garden; it’s also about enhancing the flavors in your meals. They make an ideal addition for fresh salads, sandwiches, and sauces. 

This post is all about orange tomato varieties.

Characteristics of Orange Tomato Varieties

Orange tomato varieties bring a burst of color and unique flavor to your garden and kitchen. These tomatoes aren’t just visually appealing; they also pack a punch in taste and nutritional value.

Flavor Profile

Orange tomatoes are known for their sweet taste. They usually contain more fructose compared to red tomatoes. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a less tart and more sugary flavor.

Lower Acidity

If you find red tomatoes too acidic, you’ll love orange tomatoes. They generally have a pH of around 4.2-4.5, making them less acidic and easier on your stomach.

Nutrient-Rich

Orange tomatoes are not only tasty but also nutritious. They are packed with vitamins A and C, which are good for your skin and immune system.

Variety of Uses

Just like many other types of tomatoes, these are very versatile in their use. You can use them in salads, sandwiches, or even soups. You can even choose to eat them fresh/raw by themselves.

Popular Varieties

  • Big Orange: This is a very productive variety that produces 1 pound fruit! It does take a bit longer for the fruit to be ready to harvest, taking up to 85 days.
  • Amana Orange: An heirloom variety that produces big, flavorful fruit. The fruit can actually grow to 2 pounds or more! These require 90 days to ripen. 
  • Ildi: Small and pear-shaped, perfect for salads and hanging baskets.

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[RELATED POST: How Long Does It Take to Grow Tomatoes?]

History of Orange Tomatoes

Orange tomatoes have a rich past, from ancient cultivation to modern breeding techniques.

Ancient Cultivation

Orange tomatoes trace their roots back to South America, where indigenous peoples originally cultivated them. It’s not known when cultivation of tomatoes started. However, they didn’t always have the bright colors we see today. Early tomatoes were smaller and more bitter. Initially tomatoes were thought to be poisonous. The scent of the actual plant and leaves were and are unpleasant to some.

In the 1800s, breeders and farmers began to experiment with different varieties. They focused on selecting plants with unique colors and flavors, leading to the first orange tomatoes. This was an important step in creating the diverse and tasty tomatoes we enjoy now. To read more about the history of tomatoes and learn about determinate and indeterminate tomatoes, click on the link.

Modern Tomato Breeding Techniques

The development of orange tomatoes took a significant turn in the early 1900s. Breeders wanted new colors and flavors, so they began cross breeding different tomato varieties. One of the first orange tomato varieties was the Golden Queen, which was introduced in 1882 by Alexander W. Livingston. Livingston changed tomatoes in general as they were once small, ribbed, hard cored, and almost hollow. With changes to them by Livingston, they became more known for what we see today – smooth skinned, flavorful, juicy, and meaty. Breeding techniques improved even further in the late 20th century. In 1984, Gary Staley created the Amana Orange tomato, a large, vibrant variety.

Modern breeders continue to experiment, producing a wide range of orange tomatoes with unique tastes and textures.

Types of Orange Tomatoes

Orange tomatoes are known for their sweet taste and lower acidity. They come in various shapes and sizes, each offering unique flavors and uses.

Sungold

cherry tomatoes

Sungold tomatoes are small, cherry-sized fruits. They have a vibrant orange color and are known for their very sweet flavor. These tomatoes are perfect for snacking and adding to salads.

This type of tomato is an indeterminate and grows extremely tall.

The plants are indeterminate, meaning they continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. It ripens early in the growing season in comparison to other tomatoes, and is ready to harvest in as little as 57-60 days.

Amana Orange

types of orange tomatoes

Amana Orange tomatoes are large and can weigh nearly a pound each. They have a yellowish-orange color with a slightly tangy taste, which is more acidic than other yellow varieties.

Named after the Amana, Iowa area, these heirloom tomatoes take around 90 days to ripen. They are great for sandwiches and slicing due to their size. This variety is also indeterminate, but will be ready to harvest more towards the end of the growing season since it takes at least 90 days for the fruit to ripen.

Persimmon

orange tomato varieties

Persimmon tomatoes are known for their deep orange color and mild, sweet flavor. They are medium to large, often weighing about a pound.

This heirloom variety ripens in about 80 days and has been grown since the 1800s. They are less acidic, making them perfect for those who prefer a sweeter tomato. Persimmon tomatoes are versatile, ideal for fresh eating, cooking, and canning.

These plants are also indeterminate, providing fruit over a long growing period. Be prepared to stake or cage them as they grow.

Culinary Uses of Orange Tomatoes

Orange tomatoes are not only visually striking but also versatile in the kitchen. You can use them in both fresh dishes and cooked preparations.

Salads and Fresh Dishes

Orange tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness to any salad. You can slice them and mix them with greens, cucumbers, and other fresh vegetables to create a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish.

Try a simple tomato salad with mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. It’s perfect for summer and showcases the tomato’s unique flavor.

Orange tomatoes are also great for salsas. Dice them with onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of jalapeño for a refreshing twist on traditional salsa. They pair well with avocado, making them a colorful addition to guacamole.

Just enjoy them as a side dish! Tomatoes are already so sweet and there’s nothing like just eating them raw as a side dish all on their own.

Cooking and Sauces

When it comes to cooking, orange tomatoes are excellent for sauces and soups. Their natural sweetness can give a delicious depth to tomato sauces. Roast them with garlic and olive oil, then blend them into a smooth sauce for pasta or pizza.

Orange tomatoes make wonderful additions to roasted vegetable dishes. Toss them with zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a colorful and tasty side dish.

They can also be used in stews and casseroles, adding a unique flavor profile. Consider incorporating them into your next batch of chili or vegetable stew for a hearty meal.

For a quick and tasty tomato soup, simmer orange tomatoes with garlic, onions, and vegetable broth, then blend until smooth. This soup can be served hot or cold and makes a delightful appetizer or light meal.

Preserving Orange Tomatoes

Preserving orange tomatoes allows you to enjoy their vibrant colors and flavors year-round. Key methods include canning and drying, each with its unique benefits and processes.

Canning

Canning is a popular way to preserve orange tomatoes. Start by sterilizing jars and lids. Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for about one minute, then place them in ice water to loosen the skins. Remove the skins and chop or crush the tomatoes to your preference.

Pack the tomatoes into the jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace. Add lemon juice to each jar to ensure acidity. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for around 35 minutes to seal them properly. This method keeps your tomatoes fresh for up to a year.

You can use canned orange tomatoes in soups, sauces, and stews. The canning process preserves the rich taste and nutritional value, making them a versatile addition to many dishes.

For the step by step process, grab a copy of the All New Ball Book Of Canning And Preserving: Over 350 of the Best Canned, Jammed, Pickled, and Preserved Recipes

Drying

Drying orange tomatoes is another excellent preservation method. Slice the tomatoes evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure they dry uniformly. Use a dehydrator set to 135°F or an oven set to the lowest temperature.

It typically takes 10-14 hours in a dehydrator or longer in an oven. Check that the tomatoes are fully dried but still slightly pliable. Store dried tomatoes in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.

Dried orange tomatoes can be rehydrated and used in various recipes, from salads to pasta dishes. They offer a concentrated flavor and are efficient for long-term storage, taking up less space than canned tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Orange tomatoes come in various sizes and flavors, offering unique culinary and health benefits. They are often sweeter and less acidic than their red counterparts.

What are some of the best tasting orange tomato varieties?

Orange Russian Tomato is known for its large, heart-shaped fruits with a meaty texture. Another popular variety is Amana Orange, which has a yellowish-orange color and is rich in flavor. Both varieties can be enjoyed in various dishes.

How do orange heirloom tomatoes differ from regular orange tomatoes?

Heirloom tomatoes are open-pollinated and passed down through generations, while regular ones may not have this lineage. For example, the Dad’s Sunset variety is an heirloom that offers a rich, sweet flavor and a long ripening period.

In terms of flavor, how do orange tomatoes compare to red ones?

Orange tomatoes tend to have a higher sugar content and lower acidity. This makes them taste sweeter and less tart than red tomatoes, which usually have a more balanced sweet and acidic flavor profile.

Are there unique health benefits associated with eating orange tomatoes?

Orange tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, providing essential nutrients for your health. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Their unique combination of vitamins and antioxidants can support your immune system and overall health.

What are the best varieties of orange beefsteak tomatoes?

For beefsteak varieties, consider the Orange Russian Tomato, which offers large and flavorful fruits perfect for slicing. Another excellent option is the Amana Orange, known for its robust size and rich taste, making it a great choice for various culinary uses.

This post was all about orange tomato varieties.

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