The Black Krim tomato, an heirloom variety with a distinctive appearance, is celebrated for its unique flavor profile, making it highly prized for specific culinary uses. This variety offers a depth of taste often absent in common store-bought tomatoes. Originating from a geographically unique location, the Black Krim presents a different experience from typical red tomatoes. Its characteristics are particularly suited to applications where its complex flavor can be showcased without being overwhelmed by intense heat or other ingredients.
Identifying the Black Krim Tomato
The Black Krim tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is an heirloom type, meaning its seeds are open-pollinated and passed down through generations, maintaining a consistent genetic profile. Its most defining characteristic is its coloring, which is a deep, dusky reddish-purple to near black when fully ripened, especially in hot, sunny conditions. The fruit typically retains a distinctive olive-green color around the shoulders, near the stem, which is a key identifying feature.
This beefsteak-type tomato is generally medium to large, often weighing between 10 to 12 ounces, and has a slightly flattened, globe shape. The Black Krim is named for its origin on the Crimean Peninsula (Krym) and was introduced to the United States commercially in 1990.
The Distinct Flavor Profile
The Black Krim tomato is valued for its complex and rich flavor, often described as savory and earthy. Tasters report a noticeable, slightly salty quality that balances the fruit’s natural sweetness, creating an intense, old-fashioned tomato taste. This distinctive flavor profile sometimes includes a subtle smoky undertone, which can vary depending on the specific growing conditions.
A significant factor contributing to its smoothness and sweetness is its relatively low acidity compared to many traditional red tomato varieties. Low acidity prevents the sharp, tartness associated with high-acid tomatoes, allowing the earthy and sweet notes to be more prominent. This makes the Black Krim a preferred choice for individuals who find other tomatoes too biting or acidic.
Optimal Culinary Applications
The Black Krim tomato’s unique balance of sweetness and savory notes makes it best suited for culinary uses that require little to no cooking. The most common use is in fresh slicing applications, such as layering on sandwiches, burgers, or toast, where its color and flavor can truly shine. Its meaty texture and dark color also make it a standout ingredient in simple, fresh salads like Caprese, paired with mozzarella, basil, and a light dressing.
While its flavor is robust, the low acidity means it is less ideal for long-cooked, highly acidic sauces, as the flavor can become muted. However, it excels in quick, fresh preparations like a vibrant salsa or a chilled gazpacho, where the smoky and salty character adds depth. Eating the fruit raw or lightly prepared is the best method to appreciate its complex, heirloom taste.
Growing Considerations for Home Gardeners
The Black Krim tomato plant is classified as indeterminate, meaning the vines continue to grow, flower, and produce fruit throughout the entire season until the first frost. This growth habit requires strong support, such as sturdy staking or tall caging, to manage the vines, which can easily reach six feet or more. The plants are considered heat-tolerant and typically yield mature fruit between 70 and 90 days after being transplanted into the garden.
The Black Krim is susceptible to cracking, which is often a result of inconsistent watering. To prevent the fruit from splitting, maintain a steady moisture level in the soil, avoiding cycles of dryness followed by heavy watering. Consistent hydration encourages even fruit development and helps ensure a successful harvest.