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Tomatoes rank among the most commonly utilized fruits in our kitchens. They're frequently incorporated into salads, curries, and sabzis, due to their tangy flavor that elevates the taste of various dishes. While you might regularly include them in your meals, you might be surprised to learn that multiple types of tomatoes exist. From cherry tomatoes to Roma tomatoes, and even grape tomatoes, each one possesses unique traits and characteristics. If you appreciate tomatoes, here are eight well-known varieties worth discovering and trying:

Cherry Tomatoes: These are the most frequently encountered type at local markets and grocery stores. With their small size, cherry tomatoes are both sweet and juicy, making them an excellent addition to salads or pasta dishes. They can also be enjoyed straight out of hand with your favorite dip.

Roma Tomatoes: Known as Italian tomatoes, Romas are shaped similarly to eggs and have a firm texture. With fewer seeds, they are particularly suited for producing sauces and pastes. When cooked, they maintain their deep and rich flavor.

Heirloom Tomatoes: These tomatoes are grown through open pollination, relying on natural insect activity for their reproduction. Their seeds are preserved and reused, allowing the variety to continue through generations. Often prized for their distinctive flavors, heirloom tomatoes are not typically suitable for large-scale farming.

Grape Tomatoes: Recognized as another popular variety, grape tomatoes share similarities with cherry tomatoes but vary in size, taste, and texture. Grape tomatoes tend to be more elongated rather than round and are generally less sweet compared to their cherry counterparts.

Pear Tomatoes: Resembling small teardrops, pear tomatoes come in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Their mild, slightly tangy flavor complements cheese platters and salads. They can also serve as a vibrant addition to various dishes.

Green Tomatoes: As the name indicates, these tomatoes are those that haven't reached full ripeness. They are firm and known for their tart flavor, making them an excellent choice for pickling or for inclusion in sauces and chutneys.

Beefsteak Tomatoes: Large, succulent, and robust, beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for burgers and sandwiches. Their thick slices and strong flavor make them popular during the summer months, and they typically contain fewer seeds, often weighing over a pound.