‘Abraham Lincoln’ Tomatoes
(Page 3 of 4)
April/May 2008
By William Woys Weaver
To save seeds, scoop out the seed mass of fully ripe fruit (selecting seeds from only the very best specimens), and put it in a jar of water. Label it with the name and date. Allow about four to five days of fermentation, then pour off the smelly scum that develops on the top. The good seed will sink to the bottom. Rinse the seed thoroughly in a tea strainer, then dry on paper towels. Label and date the seed clearly. Once it has dried for two or three weeks (depending on the humidity and weather), put the seed into envelopes and seal in airtight jars. Store the seed in a dark, dry, cool place. Your seed will be good for as long as 10 years if stored this way. I’ve had some seed last as long as 15 years, but it’s a good idea to refresh your seed stock every few years as a hedge against unforeseen accidents or a problematic growing season.
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Honestly Easy Tomato Bruschetta
The secret to good Italian bruschetta is well-toasted, hearty country bread and first rate olive oil, as virgin and as thick as you can find. Of course, one more important ingredient is the tomato, and flavorful ‘Abraham Lincoln’ fits the bill. Aside from toasting the bread, no cooking is involved.
12 slices of whole-wheat bread, about 11⁄2 inches thick
4 cloves garlic
1⁄2 cup virgin olive oil
2 cups red tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1 tbsp capers
1 tbsp sweet basil (or more to taste), chopped
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated
Make your bread slices small enough to hold easily in your hand, about 3 to 4 inches wide, and toast them golden brown on both sides. Mince the garlic very fine or force it through a garlic press, then combine it with the olive oil in a work bowl. Add the tomatoes, capers, sweet basil, lemon juice and seasonings. Spread the mixture on the toasted bread and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately.
Seed Sources
Reimer Seeds; Mount Holly, N.C.
R. H. Shumway; Randolph, Wis.
Southern Exposure Seed Exchange; Mineral, Va.
