Crafting tomato preserves is incredibly easy and requires only a few ingredients. By following this method, you can say goodbye to making frequent trips to the supermarket for winter tomatoes!
Tomato preserves are incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal. Whether you want to enhance a fresh dish like basil-infused spaghetti sauce or add a burst of flavor to your culinary creations, tomato preserves are a lifesaver. With this method, you can enjoy the taste of homemade goodness all year round, without relying on store-bought alternatives.
While summer is the perfect time to preserve tomatoes, there’s a little-known method that can extend their shelf life for up to two years. All you need is a bit of patience, fresh tomatoes (ideally from your own garden), and plenty of basil.
The key to delicious tomato preserves lies in using ripe and flavorful tomatoes. The taste of your preserves depends on the ripeness and variety of the tomatoes you choose. If you’re unsure which tomatoes to use, it’s always a good idea to consult your local greengrocer. Additionally, allowing the tomatoes to sit for a couple of days after purchasing can enhance the final product.
One way to determine if your tomatoes are ripe is by checking if the stem easily detaches from the fruit. And before enjoying your preserves, always make sure the jars storing the tomato sauce remain unchanged in flavor, color, and aroma throughout storage. If you notice any changes, it’s best to dispose of the preserves to avoid any potential spoilage.
Proper sterilization of the jars is crucial for successful preservation. Here’s a simple recipe that will yield excellent tomato preserves:
Ingredients for 3 2L jars:
- 7 kg of tomatoes
- Basil, to taste
- Boiling water for sterilizing jars
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Shelf life: 2 years
Preparation:
- Slice and blend the tomatoes into a puree, then transfer to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface while boiling, then continue boiling for a couple more minutes before turning off the heat.
- Pierce the tomatoes with a fork and place them in sterilized glass jars. Fill the jars with the tomato puree.
- To seal the jars, immerse them in boiling water in a pan to create a vacuum. Store the jars in a cool, dry place.
Ensuring a tight seal and vacuum is essential for extending the shelf life of the tomatoes. With this foolproof method, you’ll always have homemade tomato preserves at your fingertips, ready to elevate any dish, from a quick spaghetti to flavorful seasonings!
