Part 5/9:

Despite the challenges, tomatoes began to gain popularity. Initially regarded as ornamental plants, Italians grew them for decorative purposes without eating them, and even among the wealthy, possessing tomato plants elevated one's cultural capital.

The taste buds of Europeans were also not accustomed to spicy flavors, a significant barrier for adopting the raw sauces brought back by the Spanish. The Native American chili peppers that accompanied tomatoes were an entirely new spice profile, causing hesitancy in their culinary integration.