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Home - Cooking - Substitutes

Latest Updated: Feb 28, 2026 by Andrew Gray

Enjoy Freshness: 5 Best Plum Tomatoes Substitutes

The closest alternatives to Best Plum Tomatoes are Canned Tomatoes, Campari Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, Beefsteak Tomatoes, and Grape Tomatoes.

Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, and for a good reason.

For cooking, Campari Tomatoes also works well - adjust the amount to taste.

Finding the right substitute for plum tomatoes can seem like a wild goose chase.

Sometimes, you're half into a recipe and realize you're fresh out of these red gems.

No sweat, we've got you covered with some top-notch alternatives.

You might think nothing can replace the sweet and tangy vibe of plum tomatoes.

Oh, we beg to differ! There's a whole lineup of options that'll save your dish without skipping a beat.

Trust us, your dishes will still pop with color and flavor.

And you just might discover a new favorite along the way.

Table of Contents

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  • The 5 Best Substitutes for Plum Tomatoes
    • 1 - Canned Tomatoes
    • 2 - Campari Tomatoes
    • 3 - Tomato Paste
    • 4 - Beefsteak Tomatoes
    • 5 - Grape Tomatoes
  • Frequently Asked Questions

The 5 Best Substitutes for Plum Tomatoes

For those who love to cook, plum tomatoes are a key ingredient in many recipes.

But sometimes they can be hard to find or too expensive.

Here are five substitutes for plum tomatoes that will still give your dish that delicious tomato flavor.

For protein-driven swaps in recipes that need a binder, see eggs substitutes in meatballs guide for tips on texture and binding.

1 - Canned Tomatoes

canned tomatoes Save for Later!

Canned tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, and for a good reason.

They are a flexible ingredient used in various dishes, from pasta sauces to stews - for alternative stewed options see stewed tomatoes swap options.

Canned tomatoes are also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

In addition, canned tomatoes are usually less expensive than fresh tomatoes and have a longer shelf life.

However, canned tomatoes are also high in sodium, so it is important to check the label before purchasing.

When choosing canned tomatoes, look for brands that use natural ingredients and do not add artificial preservatives.

With such wide varieties available, there is sure to be a type of canned tomato that is perfect for your next dish.

2 - Campari Tomatoes

campari tomatoes Save for Later!

One of the most distinctive varieties of tomatoes is the Campari tomato - consult tomato substitutes and alternatives when a different variety is required.

These tomatoes are deep red and have a firm yet juicy texture.

They are also relatively large, averaging about six ounces each.

Campari tomatoes are often used in salads or garnish, but their sweet flavor makes them ideal for eating fresh out of hand.

In addition to their attractive appearance, Campari tomatoes are also known for being especially disease-resistant.

This makes them a popular choice with home gardeners who want to be sure that their plants produce a bountiful crop.

Whether you're looking for a unique addition to your next salad or simply want a delicious tomato to snack on, Campari tomatoes are an excellent choice.

3 - Tomato Paste

tomato paste Save for Later!

Tomato paste is a thick, red paste made from cooked tomatoes.

It is an important ingredient in many Italian and Mediterranean dishes, such as pizza and pasta sauce.

Tomato paste is also a great way to add flavor and texture to soups, stews, and casseroles.

While it is available in cans, jarred tomato paste often has a richer flavor.

To make your tomato paste:

  • Start cooking tomatoes until they are soft.
  • Puree the tomatoes in a food processor or blender.
  • Cook the pureed tomatoes over low heat until the moisture evaporates.
  • Transfer the tomato paste to a jar or container and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

With its intense flavor and versatile applications, tomato paste is a kitchen staple that no home cook should be without.

If a recipe calls for powdered tomato, review tomato powder substitute ideas to learn how to adapt paste into a powdered-style replacement.

4 - Beefsteak Tomatoes

beefsteak tomatoes Save for Later!

The beefsteak tomato is a large, fleshy type of tomato that is popular for slicing and serving sandwiches and burgers.

The fruit is typically red or brownish-red in color and has a slightly tart flavor.

Beefsteak tomatoes are usually grown in warm climates, requiring a long growing season to reach full maturity.

When selecting a beefsteak tomato, look for one that is heavy for its size and free of blemishes.

The fruit should also give off a pleasant aroma.

Store unwashed tomatoes in a cool, dry place until ready to use them.

To enjoy the delicious taste of beefsteak tomatoes at their peak, wait until they are fully ripe before slicing and serving.

When a recipe needs diced fruit rather than large slices, diced tomatoes swap suggestions explains easy replacements and prep tips.

5 - Grape Tomatoes

grape tomatoes Save for Later!

Grape tomatoes are a type of tomato that is small and round, similar in size and shape to a grape.

These tomatoes are usually sweeter than other varieties, making them popular for snacks and salads.

Grape tomatoes can be enjoyed fresh or cooked and are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

In recent years, grape tomatoes have become one of the most popular tomatoes sold in grocery stores.

Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or ingredients for your favorite recipe, grape tomatoes are a delicious and versatile option.

For sauces that need a similar fruity depth, plum sauce suitable substitutes outlines compatible swaps. For baking and extract uses, plum extract swap options lists alternatives that preserve aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Best Plum Tomatoes?

Canned Tomatoes, Campari Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, Beefsteak Tomatoes, and Grape Tomatoes. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Best Plum Tomatoes.

What can I use if I run out?

Yes, and the results are often hard to tell apart. Canned Tomatoes is the go-to replacement.

For variety, Campari Tomatoes adds its own twist to the dish.

Can you combine two substitutes for a closer match?

Sometimes. Blending two partial substitutes - one for flavor and one for texture - gets closer to the original.

This works best when neither alone fully replicates what you need.

Can the substitute be used raw as well as cooked?

Not always. Some substitutes are processed or have a strong raw flavor that disappears with heat.

Check whether the original is typically used raw before assuming the substitute will work the same way.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray

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Restaurant industry veteran sharing real recipes, honest substitutes, and tips that actually work in a home kitchen.

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