How to De-Seed a Tomato

Tomato seeds are edible but not always desirable.

Select firm, ripe tomatoes to ensure the best flavor of fruit. Most tomatoes turn a bright red when mature, however there are also orange, yellow and purple-pink varieties. The juicy flesh of the tomato has small pockets of seeds inside. Although tomato seeds are edible, they aren't always desired in a recipe, and many people due to dietary reasons cannot have the seeds. For these reasons, the seeds can easily be removed. De-seed tomatoes immediately before slicing and adding them to any dish of your choice.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towel
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon

Instructions

1. Wash the tomato in cool water, rubbing the skin gently with your fingers. Dry the surface of the tomato with a paper towel.

2. Lay the tomato on the cutting board horizontally, with the stem and end of the fruit on either side. Cut the tomato in half in the middle, between the blossom and stem end, with a sharp knife.

3. Hold one half of the tomato in your palm, cut side facing up. Hold the tomato over the sink or trash can and squeeze gently, rolling the tomato between in your hand, so the seeds and excess juice drips out. Repeat this step with the other half.

4. Remove any remaining seeds in each half. Scoop them out using your fingertips or a spoon.

Tips & Warnings

• The seeds and juice can be squeezed out into a small bowl and then added them to soups, stews and other recipes.

References

• University of California Extension; Tomatoes: Safe Methods to Store, Preserve and Enjoy; Tracy Parnell, et al.; March 2004
• University of Illinois Extension: Tomato