heirloom tomatoes
/ˈɛərluːm təˈmɑːtoʊz/
Meaning
These are open-pollinated, non-hybrid varieties of tomatoes that have been passed down through generations of gardeners, often for 50 years or more. They are famous for their unique shapes, vibrant colors, and deep, complex flavors compared to uniform, mass-produced supermarket tomatoes.
Examples
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We made a simple Caprese salad using sweet, colorful heirloom tomatoes from our garden.
We made a simple Caprese salad using sweet, colorful heirloom tomatoes from our garden.
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Heirloom tomatoes may look lumpy and irregular, but their flavor is unmatched.
Heirloom tomatoes may look lumpy and irregular, but their flavor is unmatched.
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The farmers' market was filled with heirloom tomatoes of every color, from deep purple to bright yellow.
The farmers' market was filled with heirloom tomatoes of every color, from deep purple to bright yellow.
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I love slicing heirloom tomatoes and serving them with just a pinch of sea salt and olive oil.
I love slicing heirloom tomatoes and serving them with just a pinch of sea salt and olive oil.
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Because they are delicate and don't ship well, heirloom tomatoes are usually sold locally.
Because they are delicate and don't ship well, heirloom tomatoes are usually sold locally.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I bought some heritage tomatoes for the salad.
✓ I bought some heirloom tomatoes for the salad.
While 'heritage' is sometimes used in British English, 'heirloom tomatoes' is the standard global culinary term, especially in North American English.
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✗ She grows beautiful heirlooms tomatoes in her backyard.
✓ She grows beautiful heirloom tomatoes in her backyard.
When 'heirloom' acts as an adjective modifying 'tomatoes', it should remain singular ('heirloom', not 'heirlooms').
Related Expressions
Practice
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Nothing beats the taste of fresh ___________ drizzled with high-quality balsamic vinegar.
💡 Color-rich, non-hybrid tomato varieties passed down through generations.
Show answer
heirloom tomatoes
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These green and red striped ___________ are incredibly sweet and juicy.
💡 Traditional, non-commercial tomato varieties.
Show answer
heirloom tomatoes