TOO MANY TOMATOES? HERE IS WHY THAT IS A BLESSING FOR YOUR BODY AND KITCHEN — PLUS EASY PRESERVATION TIPS!

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By J. M. A.

It’s that time of the year again — the markets are overflowing with fresh, juicy, red tomatoes! Whether you’re in Ho, Accra, or Tamale, you can’t miss the mounds of tomatoes smiling at you from every corner. But what do we do when there’s more tomato than our soup pot can handle? Eat more — and preserve the rest!

Let’s talk about why tomatoes are a gift to your body and how to keep them fresh without chemicals.

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Tomatoes

1. Rich in Lycopene – A powerful antioxidant that fights aging and diseases. 

2. Boosts Heart Health – Tomatoes help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. 

3. Great for Skin – Lycopene protects the skin from sun damage and keeps it glowing. 

4. Good for Digestion – High fiber content supports gut health. 

5. Strengthens Immunity – Loaded with Vitamin C to fight infections. 

6. Low in Calories – Perfect for weight management. 

7. Supports Eye Health – Contains Vitamin A and lutein.

8. Reduces Cancer Risk – Especially prostate, lung, and stomach cancer. 

9. Hydrating – Over 90% water! Keeps your body refreshed. 

10. Improves Mood – Folate in tomatoes may help reduce depression.

Simple Ways to Eat More Tomatoes

– Make your stew base super rich and delicious with more fresh tomatoes

– Add to your kontomire stew or garden egg stew or Okra stew

– Use in jollof, soups, sauces 

– Make fresh tomato juice or smoothies 

– Slice into salads or eat raw with a pinch of salt 

– This is the best time to make tomatoes and eggs sauce

– Enjoy more delicious sandwiches with fresh tomato slices and other fresh vegetables

 How to Store & Preserve Tomatoes (Naturally)

1. Sun-drying

– Slice tomatoes and dry them in the sun (3–5 days) until the moisture content reduces completely

– Store in airtight containers. Great for soups and stews later

2. Homemade Tomato Paste

– Blend tomatoes, boil until thick, cool down. 

– Store in small containers or freezer bags. 

– Easy peasy! No additives needed!

3. Freezing Whole or Blended Tomatoes

– Wash, blend or chop, pack in clean containers, and freeze.

– You can also freeze in quantities you use in making soups or stews

– Great for quick cooking.

4. Oven-drying (if you have one)

  If you can afford a dehydrator that’s a great option. It’s fast, efficient and time saving.

– Slice your tomatoes and arrange them on the trays

– Dry tomatoes on low heat (100°C) for 3–4 hours. 

– Store in jars, optionally cover with oil.

5. Store Fresh Tomatoes Properly

– Keep unripe tomatoes at room temperature (not fridge). 

– Ripe ones? Store in fridge but use within 3–5 days.

Conclusion: Eat More Tomatoes, Don’t Waste Them!

Tomatoes are one of the healthiest, tastiest, and most affordable foods in Ghana — especially in season. Eat them every day, preserve what you can, and share with neighbors too! Your body, your skin, and your wallet will thank you.