To chop tomatoes coarsely, cut them into roughly 1 to 1.5 cm (0.5 inch) pieces.
Here's a simple, step-by-step guide:
- Wash the Tomato: Rinse the tomato thoroughly under cold water.
- Cut in Half: Place the tomato on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut it in half vertically (from stem to blossom end).
- Remove Seeds (Optional): If desired, remove the seeds by gently scooping them out with your fingers. This can help reduce excess moisture in your dish.
- Cut into Strips: Place each tomato half cut-side up on the cutting board. Cut each half lengthwise into strips that are approximately 1 to 1.5 cm (0.5 inch) wide.
- Cut into Chunks: Now, rotate the strips and cut across them to create roughly chopped chunks that are about 1 to 1.5 cm (0.5 inch) in size.
Summary: Coarsely chopped tomatoes should be in relatively large, uneven pieces. This method is perfect for dishes where you want visible tomato texture, such as salsas, sauces, stews, and salads.
