Today’s mass-produced tomatoes often grow to palm-sized proportions, but their naturally occurring ancestors were far smaller fruits. They were also sweeter and more flavorful due to their lower water content compared to the red fruits found in grocery stores—but recent genetic discoveries have unlocked the path to attaining the best of both worlds.

The world produces around 180 million tons of tomatoes each year. Whether they are raw, cooked, or used in sauces, tomatoes are a staple in kitchens worldwide. However, not all tomatoes are created equal — some are much tastier than others. Generally ...