After two months of roller coaster prices that rocked the country’s food world, tomato prices seem to have levelled out and are (almost) back to normal. The prices range between Rs. 50 and Rs 70 per kg as of Monday at markets around the country, and the government plans to keep up subsidised rates until the prices stabilise completely.
The price spike was attributed to fluctuating weather conditions earlier in the year. A heat wave followed by early onset monsoons increased pest populations and brought on a leaf rot disease that decimated crops and drove up demand. Now fresh crops have started to roll out from states like Madhya Pradesh and are significantly lowering prices.
Cooperatives NCCF and NAFED have initiated the sale of tomatoes at a reduced price of ₹40 per kilogram starting from August 20. This decision comes in response to the decreasing prices of tomatoes in both wholesale and retail markets.
For the past month, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) have been collaborating to offer tomatoes at a discounted rate. This strategic effort is being carried out on behalf of the Consumer Affairs Ministry, aimed at curbing the escalation of tomato prices.
Last month tomato prices surged as high as Rs 250 per kg, shocking consumers and greatly affecting restaurants and businesses. Due to the unavailability of quality crops, even fast food giants like McDonald’s were forced to remove the vegetable from their menus so this return to normalcy is sure to come as a welcome respite.
To celebrate the return of tomatoes to our daily groceries, here are 7 dishes you can try at home:
Andhra Tamati Pachadi
No South Indian meal is complete without a chutney and this sour, spicy, sweet concoction can do it all. Made with tomatoes, chilli, onion, garlic and tamarind, it’s the perfect symphony of flavours to accompany you at breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Tomato Bath:
This quintessentially Karnataka dish is simple but delicious. Tomato paste is cooked with spices and then mixed with rice, giving it a vibrant colour and a burst of tangy flavour. This quick and easy one-pot meal is perfect for school tiffins or busy workday mealtimes.
Tomato Bruschetta:
A simple and flavorful appetisers, tomato bruschetta features diced tomatoes mixed with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The mixture is spooned onto toasted slices of baguette, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavours.
Tomato Soup:
An all time favourite comfort food, tomato soup is made by blending tomatoes with onions, garlic, and sometimes other vegetables. It's then simmered and seasoned to create a smooth and creamy soup, often served with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for the perfect meal.
Shakshuka:
Shakshuka is a popular Middle Eastern and North African dish where eggs are poached in a flavorful tomato and red pepper sauce. It's often spiced with cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, creating a deliciously warm mix that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Kolmi No Patio:
This khatta meetha Parsi prawn dish is made from a mixture of tomatoes, onions and spices, cooked down with vinegar and jaggery to add a unique contrast of flavours. Usually served alongside plain dal and rice, it's a tangy, interesting side dish to try.
Bolognese Sauce:
Bolognese sauce, also called ragù alla bolognese, hails from Bologna, Italy, featuring a luscious, globally beloved pasta sauce. This slow-cooked, meat-based concoction blends ground beef and pork with veggies, tomatoes, and wine for a deep flavour, perfect to slurrp up with spaghetti.