The tomato - fruit or vegetable? Well, botanically it is considered to be a fruit, but for culinary proposes (and also under U.S. Customs regulations) it is considered to be a vegetable.
The tomato, believe it or not, actually originated in the South American Andes, where it was used by the Mesoamerican peoples. It has since spread all around the world. Although it can be grown outside, it is also a popular greenhouse "vegetable" so it is available all year round.
Tomatoes can be used in cooking and relishes, and also in drinks (tomato juice is popular), but this day celebrates the fresh tomato. Tomatoes are eaten raw, and are popular in salads.
Fresh tomatoes of many different varieties can easily be obtained in most shops, but for truly fresh ones you could grow your own. Some of the smaller varieties can easily be grown in a pot on the windowsill.
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