Jersey Devil Tomato: A Unique and Flavorful Addition to Your Garden
If you’re a gardening enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the Jersey Devil Tomato. This unique variety of tomato is known for its oblong shape, which resembles the mythical creature it’s named after. But the Jersey Devil Tomato isn’t just a novelty plant – it’s also a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
The Jersey Devil Tomato is a paste tomato, which means it has a firmer texture and less water content than other types of tomatoes. This makes it ideal for making sauces, salsas, and other tomato-based dishes. The tomato’s meaty flesh and low seed count also make it a popular choice for canning and preserving.
So where did the Jersey Devil Tomato come from? According to some sources, it was first cultivated in New Jersey in the early 1900s.
Over the years, it became a staple of the state’s tomato industry, and it’s still a popular variety today. If you’re interested in growing your own Jersey Devil Tomatoes, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started.
Key Takeaways
- The Jersey Devil Tomato is a unique and versatile variety of tomato that’s popular among gardeners and cooks alike.
- This paste tomato has a firmer texture and less water content than other types of tomatoes, making it ideal for making sauces and salsas.
- The Jersey Devil Tomato has a rich history in New Jersey and is still a popular variety today.
Jersey Devil Tomato
If you are looking for a tomato variety that is perfect for canning and cooking down into delicious tomato sauces, then the Jersey Devil Tomato is an excellent choice. This heirloom variety has meaty, creamy flesh with that iconic tomato tang you want in homemade pasta sauce.
The Jersey Devil Tomato is a paste-type tomato that is slow to set on but yields very heavily. The pendulant, pointed, pepper-like fruit grows to about 5 to 6 inches and is very juicy, meaty, and has few seeds. It is very flavorful and excellent used in sauces and salsas.
This tomato variety was another pillar of the New Jersey tomato industry and is an ancestor to “Jersey Giant.” The first ripe, juicy tomato of summer is a delicious milestone of the season for gardeners, and each year, gardeners test and evaluate more than 250 tomato varieties to bring you the most flavorful, best-performing selections for every desired use.
Here are some key features of the Jersey Devil Tomato:
- Shape: Pendulant, pointed, pepper-like fruit
- Color: Ruby-red
- Size: 5-6 inches
- Flavor: Meaty, creamy flesh with a classic tomato tang
- Texture: Very juicy and meaty with few seeds
- Use: Excellent for canning and cooking down into tomato sauces, salsas, and more
If you are planning to grow your own Jersey Devil Tomatoes, you should know that they require full sun and well-drained soil. They also need support, such as stakes or cages, to keep the heavy fruit off the ground.
Overall, the Jersey Devil Tomato is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to grow a flavorful and productive tomato variety that is perfect for canning and cooking down into delicious tomato sauces.
Origin of Jersey Devil Tomato
If you’re a fan of tomatoes, you’ve probably heard of the Jersey Devil Tomato. This oblong tomato is a unique variety that has been taking the gardening world by storm for its unparalleled flavor and texture. But where did this tomato come from, and why is it called the Jersey Devil?
The Jersey Devil Tomato is a variety of tomato that was first developed in New Jersey, hence its name. It is believed to have been created by a group of farmers who were looking for a tomato that would be perfect for canning and salsa making. They wanted a tomato that was meaty and had few seeds, which would make it easier to process and preserve.
The tomato is named after the legendary creature that is said to inhabit the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey. The Jersey Devil is a mythical creature that has been the subject of many legends and stories throughout the years. It is said to be a winged creature with the head of a horse and the body of a kangaroo, and it is believed to have been terrorizing the people of New Jersey for centuries.
The Jersey Devil Tomato is not only a delicious and unique variety of tomato, but it also has an interesting backstory. It is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the farmers who developed it, and it has become a beloved part of New Jersey’s agricultural heritage. If you’re a tomato lover, you owe it to yourself to try this amazing variety and experience its unparalleled flavor and texture for yourself.
Cultivation of Jersey Devil Tomato
If you’re thinking about growing Jersey Devil Tomatoes, you’re in for a treat. These tomatoes are known for their incredible flavor and texture, making them a favorite among gardeners. Here are some tips to help you cultivate your own Jersey Devil Tomatoes:
Planting
When planting Jersey Devil Tomatoes, make sure you choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. These tomatoes need at least six hours of sunlight per day, so choose a spot that gets plenty of sun. You should also make sure the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Jersey Devil Tomato seeds should be started indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. You can transplant them outdoors once the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed.
Watering
Jersey Devil Tomatoes need consistent watering to thrive. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. You should water them deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly hot and dry.
Fertilizing
Jersey Devil Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so you’ll need to fertilize them regularly. You can use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for growing healthy Jersey Devil Tomato plants. You should remove the suckers that grow between the main stem and the branches. This will help the plant focus its energy on producing fruit instead of foliage.
Harvesting
Jersey Devil Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they turn bright red and feel slightly soft to the touch. You should pick them as soon as they’re ripe to prevent them from over-ripening on the vine.
Pests and Diseases
Jersey Devil Tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, tomato hornworms, and blossom end rot. To prevent these issues, you should keep the plants well-watered and fertilized, and remove any diseased leaves or fruit.
Benefits of Jersey Devil Tomato
If you’re looking for a new addition to your vegetable garden, the Jersey Devil Tomato might be just what you need. Here are some of the benefits of growing this unique tomato variety:
1. Great for Canning
Jersey Devil Tomatoes are perfect for canning due to their meaty texture and low seed count. They make a flavorful addition to any tomato sauce or salsa. If you’re looking to preserve your garden harvest, the Jersey Devil Tomato is an excellent choice.
2. Unparalleled Flavor
One of the most significant benefits of the Jersey Devil Tomato is its unparalleled flavor. This variety is known for its sweet and juicy taste, making it a favorite among tomato lovers. Whether you’re using it in a salad or as a base for a pasta sauce, the Jersey Devil Tomato is sure to add a burst of flavor to any dish.
3. High Yield
If you’re looking for a tomato variety that will produce a high yield, the Jersey Devil Tomato is an excellent choice. While it may take a bit longer to mature than other varieties, this tomato will produce a large number of fruits once it starts to bear. You can expect to have plenty of tomatoes to enjoy throughout the growing season.
4. Easy to Grow
Despite its unusual shape, the Jersey Devil Tomato is relatively easy to grow. It requires full sun and well-drained soil, but other than that, it doesn’t have any specific requirements. If you’re new to gardening, this tomato variety is an excellent choice to start with.
5. Unique Appearance
The Jersey Devil Tomato’s unique appearance is another benefit of growing this variety. Its long, slender shape and bright red color make it an eye-catching addition to any garden. Plus, its unusual shape makes it a great conversation starter among fellow gardeners.
Overall, the Jersey Devil Tomato is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a new tomato variety to their garden. With its unparalleled flavor, high yield, and unique appearance, it’s sure to be a hit with both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
Recipes with Jersey Devil Tomato
If you’re looking for ways to use the delicious Jersey Devil tomatoes, you’re in luck! These versatile tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to soups and stews. Here are some recipe ideas to get you started:
Jersey Devil Tomato Pasta Sauce
This simple pasta sauce is a great way to showcase the unique flavor of Jersey Devil tomatoes. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Jersey Devil tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 10-15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over your favorite pasta and top with fresh basil.
Jersey Devil Tomato Soup
This hearty tomato soup is perfect for a chilly day. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Jersey Devil tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are completely broken down.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with fresh basil.
Jersey Devil Tomato Salsa
This fresh and flavorful salsa is perfect for dipping tortilla chips or topping tacos. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Jersey Devil tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with tortilla chips or use as a topping for tacos.
These are just a few ideas for using Jersey Devil tomatoes in your cooking. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the unique flavor of these delicious tomatoes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular varieties of paste tomatoes?
There are many popular varieties of paste tomatoes that are perfect for making sauces, pastes, and purees. Some of the most popular types include San Marzano, Roma, Amish Paste, and Opalka. These tomatoes are all meaty, with few seeds, and have a rich, sweet flavor. They are perfect for cooking and canning.
What are some exotic tomato seeds available?
If you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, there are many unusual tomato varieties available. Some popular options include:
- Pineapple tomato: This tomato has a sweet, tropical flavor and is yellow with red streaks.
- Black Krim tomato: This tomato has a rich, smoky flavor and is a deep, dark purple color.
- Green Zebra tomato: This tomato is green with yellow stripes and has a tangy, sweet flavor.
- Cherokee Purple tomato: This tomato has a sweet, rich flavor and is a deep, dark purple color.
Tell me about the Opalka tomato.
The Opalka tomato is a popular variety of paste tomato that originates from Poland. It is a long, sausage-shaped tomato that can grow up to 6 inches in length. The Opalka tomato has a sweet, rich flavor and is perfect for making sauces and pastes. It is also great for canning.
What is the Pineapple tomato?
The Pineapple tomato is a unique and exotic variety of tomato that is yellow with red streaks. It has a sweet, tropical flavor that is perfect for salads and sandwiches. The Pineapple tomato is also great for making salsa and sauces.
Can you describe the Federle tomato?
The Federle tomato is a rare and unusual variety of tomato that is native to Italy. It is a small, plum-shaped tomato that is red with green stripes. The Federle tomato has a sweet, tangy flavor and is perfect for salads and sandwiches.
What makes Jersey tomatoes unique?
Jersey tomatoes are known for their sweet, rich flavor and meaty texture. They are grown in New Jersey, which has a unique climate and soil that is perfect for growing tomatoes. Jersey tomatoes are also known for their bright red color and uniform shape. They are a popular variety of tomato for canning and cooking.
