Diced tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, a versatile ingredient that adds depth and flavor to countless recipes. From hearty stews and flavorful sauces to vibrant salsas and comforting casseroles, diced tomatoes provide a convenient and readily available way to incorporate the taste of fresh tomatoes into your cooking. But when a recipe calls for a “large can” of diced tomatoes, it can leave you wondering: just how large is “large”? This article will delve into the specifics, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding canned tomato sizes and ensuring you choose the right can for your culinary needs.
Understanding Canned Tomato Sizes: A Necessary Skill for Every Cook
Knowing the standard sizes of canned goods, including diced tomatoes, is a fundamental skill for any home cook. It helps prevent recipe mishaps, ensures consistent results, and allows you to accurately adjust recipes based on your desired yield. While fresh tomatoes are a delightful option, canned diced tomatoes offer convenience, consistency, and year-round availability, making them a pantry essential.
The Importance of Standardized Sizes
The food industry relies on standardized can sizes to facilitate recipe development, grocery shopping, and inventory management. These standards provide clarity and predictability, reducing confusion for both consumers and manufacturers. Without them, the ambiguity could lead to inconsistent dishes and frustrated cooks.
Knowing the standard can sizes for diced tomatoes and other canned goods can help you:
- Accurately follow recipes.
- Adjust recipes to serve more or fewer people.
- Substitute ingredients when necessary.
- Effectively plan your grocery shopping trips.
- Minimize food waste by purchasing the appropriate quantities.
Common Diced Tomato Can Sizes
Diced tomatoes are typically sold in a range of sizes, each designed to suit different cooking needs. These sizes are often expressed in ounces or fluid ounces. However, it’s crucial to remember that ounce measurements can refer to weight or volume, so understanding the distinction is essential. Here’s an overview of common diced tomato can sizes:
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Small Cans (6-8 ounces): These are often referred to as “snack size” or “individual serving” cans. They are suitable for smaller recipes, single-serving meals, or adding a quick burst of tomato flavor to a dish.
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Medium Cans (14-15 ounces): This size is perhaps the most common and versatile. Often labeled as “standard” or “regular,” these cans are ideal for everyday cooking and many common recipes.
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Large Cans (28-32 ounces): This is the size we are focusing on in this article. These cans, often labelled as “family size” or “large,” are great for making larger batches of sauces, stews, or soups. They are economical for recipes that require a significant amount of tomatoes.
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Extra Large Cans (102-108 ounces): Primarily used in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and catering businesses, these oversized cans are suitable for preparing very large quantities of food.
Defining the “Large” Can: Size and Usage
When a recipe calls for a “large” can of diced tomatoes, it almost always refers to a can that holds between 28 and 32 ounces. This size is significantly larger than the standard 14.5-ounce can and provides a substantial amount of tomatoes for more elaborate dishes.
Why the “Large” Can Matters
The “large” can of diced tomatoes plays a critical role in various cooking scenarios. Understanding when to use this size can drastically improve your cooking process and the quality of your final dish.
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Efficiency: Using a larger can can save time and effort, especially when preparing meals for a crowd or batch-cooking for the week.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing larger cans is often more economical than buying multiple smaller cans, especially if you frequently use diced tomatoes in your recipes.
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Consistency: Using one large can can help maintain a more consistent flavor profile throughout your dish.
Common Recipes Utilizing Large Cans
A “large” can of diced tomatoes is perfect for recipes that require a hearty tomato base or involve feeding a larger group of people. Here are some examples:
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Chili: Most chili recipes, especially those intended to serve multiple people, benefit from the depth and volume that a large can of diced tomatoes provides. The tomatoes contribute to the overall texture and add a necessary layer of acidity.
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Pasta Sauce: Making a large batch of homemade pasta sauce is a great way to use a large can of diced tomatoes. The tomatoes form the foundation of the sauce, providing the base for other flavors to build upon.
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Soups and Stews: Tomato-based soups and stews, such as minestrone or beef stew, often call for a large can of diced tomatoes to create a rich and flavorful broth.
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Casseroles: Many casserole recipes, such as lasagna or chicken enchilada casserole, use diced tomatoes as a key ingredient to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
Understanding the Fine Print: Checking Labels
While “large” typically refers to a 28-32 ounce can, always double-check the label to confirm the exact weight or volume of the product. Different brands might offer slightly varying sizes, and it’s essential to be accurate for recipe success. Pay attention to both the net weight and the drained weight, if provided, as these can affect the final outcome of your recipe. The net weight refers to the total weight of the product in the can, including both the tomatoes and the liquid. The drained weight refers to the weight of the tomatoes after the liquid has been removed.
Beyond Size: Factors to Consider When Choosing Diced Tomatoes
While size is a primary consideration, several other factors can influence your choice of diced tomatoes. These include the variety of tomatoes used, the presence of added ingredients, and the packaging type.
Tomato Variety
Different varieties of tomatoes offer varying levels of sweetness, acidity, and texture. Common varieties used in canned diced tomatoes include:
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Roma Tomatoes: Known for their meaty texture and relatively low water content, Roma tomatoes are a popular choice for canning. They provide a rich tomato flavor and hold their shape well during cooking.
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San Marzano Tomatoes: Considered by many to be the gold standard for Italian cooking, San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their sweet, intense flavor and low acidity. They often come at a premium price point.
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Generic “Tomato” Varieties: Some brands use a blend of different tomato varieties, often simply labeled as “tomatoes.” While these can be a more budget-friendly option, the flavor and texture might be less consistent.
Added Ingredients
Some canned diced tomatoes contain added ingredients, such as salt, sugar, herbs, or spices. These additions can enhance the flavor of the tomatoes but might also affect the overall balance of your recipe. Always read the ingredient list carefully to ensure that the added ingredients align with your preferences and dietary needs. No salt added options are readily available for those monitoring their sodium intake. Some brands also offer diced tomatoes with added flavorings, such as basil, garlic, or oregano, which can save time and effort when cooking. However, these flavored varieties might not be suitable for all recipes, so choose them judiciously.
Packaging Options
While traditional cans are the most common packaging for diced tomatoes, you might also find them in aseptic cartons or jars. Each packaging type has its advantages and disadvantages.
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Cans: Cans are generally the most affordable and widely available option. They offer a long shelf life and are easy to store. However, some people are concerned about the potential for BPA (bisphenol A) to leach from the can lining into the food. Many manufacturers now offer BPA-free cans to address this concern.
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Aseptic Cartons: Cartons are made from paperboard lined with plastic and aluminum. They are lightweight, easy to open, and recyclable. Some people prefer cartons over cans because they believe they offer a fresher taste.
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Jars: Jars offer a clear view of the product and are reusable or recyclable. They can be more expensive than cans or cartons but are often perceived as being more environmentally friendly.
Tips for Cooking with Diced Tomatoes
Using diced tomatoes effectively involves more than just opening the can and adding them to your recipe. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:
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Drain or Don’t Drain: Whether you drain the diced tomatoes or not depends on the recipe. Draining removes excess liquid, which can be beneficial for thickening sauces or preventing a dish from becoming too watery. However, the liquid also contains valuable flavor and nutrients, so you might choose to retain it in some cases.
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Adjust Acidity: Tomatoes are naturally acidic, which can sometimes affect the flavor of a dish. If your recipe tastes too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar or a small amount of baking soda to neutralize the acidity.
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Enhance Flavor: To enhance the flavor of diced tomatoes, consider sautéing them with aromatic vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and celery, before adding them to your recipe. You can also add herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes, to complement the tomato flavor.
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Storage: Once opened, unused diced tomatoes should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. They will typically last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can freeze leftover diced tomatoes for longer storage.
A Final Word on Can Sizes and Culinary Creativity
Understanding the nuances of canned diced tomatoes, especially the “large” can size, empowers you to be a more confident and creative cook. By knowing the standard sizes, considering the tomato variety and added ingredients, and applying effective cooking techniques, you can unlock the full potential of this versatile ingredient and elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and varieties to find your personal favorites. And remember, the best way to learn is through experience, so get in the kitchen and start cooking!
What is the most common size of diced tomato cans, and how does a larger size compare?
The most common size of diced tomato cans you’ll find in grocery stores is 14.5 ounces. This is a standard size used by many brands and is suitable for many recipes calling for diced tomatoes, such as pasta sauces, soups, and chili. It’s readily available and often the default option unless a recipe specifically requires a different size.
A larger can of diced tomatoes typically comes in a 28-ounce size. This can is nearly twice the volume of the standard 14.5-ounce can and is often used when preparing larger batches of recipes or when a recipe calls for a significant amount of tomatoes. If a recipe calls for more than one standard can, using a single 28-ounce can can be more convenient and potentially more cost-effective.
What factors determine if a can of diced tomatoes is considered “large”?
The determination of whether a can of diced tomatoes is considered “large” is relative and depends on the context. Generally, anything larger than the standard 14.5-ounce can is often perceived as large. This is because most recipes are geared toward using the standard size as a baseline measurement.
However, the perception of “large” can also vary depending on the purpose. For home cooking, a 28-ounce can is typically considered large. For commercial or catering purposes, even larger cans, such as those holding 100 ounces or more, might be considered standard, making a 28-ounce can relatively small in comparison.
What are some recipes that typically require a “large” can of diced tomatoes?
Recipes that often call for a “large” can of diced tomatoes (28 ounces) include family-sized batches of chili, pasta sauces for larger groups, and big pots of soup. These recipes are designed to feed several people or to provide leftovers for future meals, requiring a greater quantity of tomatoes to achieve the desired flavor and consistency.
Furthermore, recipes that use diced tomatoes as a primary ingredient, rather than a supporting one, are more likely to require a larger can. Think of dishes like shakshuka, certain stews, or even some types of salsas intended for canning. These dishes often rely heavily on the tomato base, thus benefiting from the increased volume a larger can provides.
Is the price per ounce usually better when buying a larger can of diced tomatoes?
Typically, purchasing larger cans of diced tomatoes results in a lower price per ounce compared to smaller cans. This is a common strategy used by manufacturers and retailers to incentivize bulk buying and reduce packaging costs per unit of product. Consumers can often save money in the long run by opting for larger cans, especially if they frequently use diced tomatoes in their cooking.
However, it’s always best to check the unit price (price per ounce or per gram) listed on the shelf or online to confirm. Sales, promotions, and differences between brands can sometimes alter this general trend. Calculating the unit price ensures you are indeed getting the most economical option for your needs.
How does the consistency and quality of diced tomatoes vary between can sizes?
The consistency and quality of diced tomatoes are generally consistent regardless of the can size, as manufacturers typically use the same processes and standards across their product lines. The ripeness of the tomatoes, the size of the dice, and the amount of juice are usually maintained whether you buy a small, standard, or large can.
However, slight variations can occur due to batch differences and processing conditions. For instance, a larger can might contain tomatoes from a slightly different harvest than a smaller can. Ultimately, choosing a reputable brand and checking for visible signs of quality, like consistent color and minimal bruising, are more important than focusing solely on the can size.
What are the storage considerations when using only part of a large can of diced tomatoes?
If you only use part of a large can of diced tomatoes, proper storage is crucial to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage. Transfer the remaining tomatoes to an airtight container made of glass or plastic. Avoid storing them in the open can, as the metal can react with the acidity of the tomatoes and potentially leach unwanted flavors.
Store the container in the refrigerator immediately after opening. Diced tomatoes stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator will typically last for 5-7 days. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor, discoloration, or mold, before using them.
Can I substitute different sizes of diced tomato cans in a recipe, and how?
Yes, you can easily substitute different sizes of diced tomato cans in a recipe. The key is to pay attention to the total volume of tomatoes the recipe calls for. If a recipe requires one 14.5-ounce can and you only have a 28-ounce can, simply use half of the larger can, measuring approximately 14.5 ounces.
Conversely, if a recipe calls for a 28-ounce can and you only have 14.5-ounce cans, use two cans. It’s always a good idea to slightly over-measure rather than under-measure, as you can always adjust the consistency of your recipe later on. The most important thing is to achieve the desired flavor and texture.