The tomato, a central ingredient in cuisines around the world, has a history that is as rich and complex as its flavor.
The story of the tomato’s discovery and global journey reflects both the awe of new discoveries and the caution of encountering the unknown.
Native to western South America and Central America, the tomato was first cultivated by the Aztecs and Incas as early as 700 AD.
The fruit, which comes in a variety of colors including red, yellow, orange, and purple, was originally thought to have been domesticated in Mexico, where the largest variety of tomatoes is found and where the name “tomato” was derived from the Nahuatl word “tomatl.”
Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés is often credited with introducing the tomato to Europe after the conquest of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán, now Mexico City, in 1521.
However, it is also possible that Christopher Columbus brought the fruit to Europe as early as 1493. Regardless of how it first arrived, the tomato was initially met with suspicion in Europe.
It was grown as an ornamental plant called the “golden apple,” and many Europeans feared it was poisonous due to its belonging to the nightshade family, which contains several toxic plants.
The tomato’s breakthrough came in the cuisine of Italy, where it was first embraced in the late 17th or early 18th century, especially in the poorer regions of southern Italy.
Its acidity made it a perfect fit for long-simmering sauces. By the mid-18th century, tomatoes were widely eaten in Britain and Spain as well.
However, the fruit did not become a staple in North America until the 19th century.
Today, the tomato is a dietary staple in many cultures, and thousands of varieties are cultivated worldwide.
Despite its initial reception, the tomato has become an invaluable part of global agriculture and cuisine.
From the ancient Aztec tables to Italian pasta sauces, American hamburgers, and Indian curries, the tomato has transcended its origins, proving that food can indeed bridge cultures and change historical courses.
About The Author
John Bagnasco has been in the gardening industry for over 50 years, starting with a horticulture degree from Michigan State University and following a stint at Frank’s Nursery and Crafts in Detroit.
After publishing his first book “Plants for the Home Vol. I” in 1976, he moved to California to become regional manager and buyer for the Nurseryland division of Sunbelt Nursery Group.
He then became the head buyer for Armstrong Garden Centers based in Glendora, California. John had a part-time affiliation with Creative Promotions for ten years before joining them full-time in October 2000 as a senior editor and radio personality for Garden Compass.
John has also taught horticulture classes at Palomar College and San Diego State University.
He is the host of the DVD “The Essential Guide to Roses,” which also features Bryan Main and Bruce and Sharon Asakawa.
His most recent book is “Planting Designs for Cacti and Succulents”.
Currently, John is a co-host on “Garden America,” an interactive live gardening show that additionally provides podcasts of the broadcasts accessible on all major platforms.
You can contact John here.