San Marzano Tomatoes

San Marzano tomatoes are the best tinned tomatoes you can buy and the choice of many top chefs. These Italian tinned tomatoes, produced near Naples, are juicy, flavorful and perfect for everything from pasta sauces to gazpacho soup.

Why are San Marzano tomatoes special?

San Marzano tomatoes have been grown in Southern Italy for many years, and they are well-known for their rich flavour and firm texture. This is largely due to the type of soil they're grown in, which is made up of volcanic rock. San Marzano tomatoes are often considered to be the best variety because they have a lower water and higher sugar content than other varieties. This makes them perfect for preserving in tins. San Marzano tomatoes are picked at the peak of ripeness, for maximum flavour

What is the difference between San Marzano tomatoes and regular tomatoes?

This variety of tomato is grown in the mountains of Campania, a region in southern Italy with hot, dry summers and cool winters. The rich volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate create an ideal environment for growing these juicy and flavourful tomatoes. They boast a Protected Designation of Origin status which specifies the precise cultivar, processing method and region in which the tomatoes can be grown. This time-honoured and careful process is what makes them so sought after.

Why do chefs use San Marzano tomatoes?

Chefs have been using the San Marzano tomatoes for years because they have a great balance of acidity, sweetness and flavour. It's perfect for sauces, soups and other dishes that need a strong tomato flavour. The dense flesh creates fantastic thick texture, with no excess water.

How do I cook with San Marzano tomatoes?

San Marzano tinned tomatoes are incredibly versatile in not just Italian dishes, but also cuisines from across the globe. Some of our favourite ways to use them are:

These tomatoes make fantastic pasta and pizza sauces - they give a thick rich texture. Plus, think beyond classic pizza and pasta sauces, and use your tomatoes to make rich curry sauces,
These flavour-packed tomatoes are also fantastic with dishes that pack flavour. Try Spanish seafood stews, flavoured with paprika, or a deep and savoury mushroom ragu.
Make the most of the intense fresh tomato flavour and serve them in a chopped salad or simple chilled gazpacho soup.