This Viral Hack Is Undoubtedly the Easiest Way to Peel Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in sandwiches, salads, and countless cooked dishes all year long, but nothing quite compares to the flavor of a ripe, in-season tomato. It’s almost like tasting a completely different fruit when compared to the pale, off-season varieties. Since tomatoes are only at their peak for a short period, it becomes a race to enjoy them while they last. This means indulging in tomato sandwiches, BLTs, and Caprese salads, as well as a frantic effort to preserve as many as possible for the months ahead.

Whether you're preparing tomatoes for canning or whipping up a fresh tomato sauce, this viral video reveals the easiest method to peel tomatoes without the hassle.

Instead of the traditional method of blanching tomatoes and waiting for them to cool before peeling, TikTok user @homewithhayli introduces a hands-off technique. Simply place whole tomatoes in the freezer and let them freeze completely. When you're ready to can or cook them, take the tomatoes out of the freezer and let them thaw. As they thaw, the skins will easily slip off, leaving you with perfectly peeled tomatoes.

Although this method works as-is, some viewers suggested prepping the tomatoes first by coring and scoring them before freezing. Doing so can make peeling even easier after they've thawed.

The method has been praised by those who use tomatoes for cooked dishes. One person shared, “I cored and sliced tomatoes, threw them in ziplock bags last summer, then made sauce when the weather cooled down in the fall. Total game changer!” Another commenter added, “This is perfect for when you have so many tomatoes that they're going to spoil anyway. It’s a genius way to use them all for cooking!”

This freezing and thawing method works best if you're planning to can your tomatoes or cook them into sauces or jam. Keep in mind that the freezing process alters the texture of the tomatoes, so it’s not ideal for fresh uses like in sandwiches where you want a thick, fresh slice of tomato.