Tomatoes for freezing?

[Ed Strong]

My local market sells large scoops of tomatoes for �1. In the past I've used them to make tomato soup in my slow cooker, but my question is: Can I freeze tomatoes raw if I am only going to use them for cooking?

[crete]

might be best to cook them first then freeze

[whiffey]

I always have a large crop of home-grown tomatoes and freeze whole any I can't eat. They are fine for cooking. Maybe I am just lazy though.

[nickmo]

Freeze as raw, whole without the skin, or chop and keep as portions. Blanch for 30 secs then peel and store. Store in freezer bags with the date on - they actually are ok for about 12 months.

If you freeze with the skin on this will be able to be lifted out of any dish when cooking or you can run them under hot water when defrosted and the skin slips off.

[Ed Strong]

Thanks everybody for taking the time to answer.

[WendyS]

They'll be rather watery if frozen raw. Best to chop them and cook them with some fried onion until the pulp thickens Then freeze in bags in suitable portions. You'll end up with a far better flavour this way even if it involves a little more work.