Today, we’re diving into the delicious world of tomato sauce recipes. Whether you like it plain or prefer it seasoned, tomato sauce is a versatile and essential staple in many cuisines. Perfect for preserving summer tomatoes or enjoying year-round, canning tomato sauce allows you to savor the flavor of ripe tomatoes even during the colder months. So let’s roll up our sleeves and explore some mouthwatering recipes!
Canning Tomato Sauce (Plain or Seasoned)
Ingredients:
- 8 pounds of ripe tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for safety and preservation)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Wash the tomatoes and remove any blemishes or damaged areas.
- Cut a small “X” at the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for about 1 minute.
- Transfer the blanched tomatoes to an ice bath to cool.
- Peel the cooled tomatoes and remove the cores.
- Place the tomatoes in a large pot and simmer for around 30 minutes, until they are soft and juicy.
- Pass the cooked tomatoes through a food mill or use an immersion blender to puree them.
- Return the tomato puree to the pot and add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for another 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the sauce is cooking, prepare your canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in boiling water.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, carefully ladle it into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace.
- Wipe the jar rims clean, seal with the lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes.
- Remove the jars from the water bath and allow them to cool on a towel. Check the seals before storing.
How to Prepare:
This homemade tomato sauce can be used in countless dishes, from pasta and pizza to soups and stews. Its vibrant flavor and smooth texture will elevate any meal. To enjoy it, simply heat the sauce on the stovetop and use it as a base for your favorite recipes. You can also customize the sauce by adding herbs, garlic, or onions during the cooking process.
Preparation Time:
Preparing the tomatoes and cooking the sauce will take approximately 4-5 hours, depending on the desired thickness of the sauce.
Servings:
This recipe yields approximately 6-8 pints of tomato sauce, depending on the size of your jars.
Nutrition Facts:
Tomato sauce is a healthy addition to your meals, as it is low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential health benefits.
Tips:
- Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the sauce for a personalized touch.
- Properly sterilize your jars and lids to ensure safe and long-lasting preservation.
- Label your jars with the date and contents for easy reference.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
A: While this recipe calls for fresh tomatoes, you can certainly use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to choose high-quality canned tomatoes with no added salt or preservatives.
Q: How long can I store the canned tomato sauce?
A: When properly processed and sealed, canned tomato sauce can last for up to 1 year in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a week.
Q: Can I freeze the tomato sauce instead of canning it?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to freeze the sauce, let it cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Now that you have mastered the art of canning tomato sauce, you can enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes all year long. Whether you savor it plain or experiment with different seasonings, this homemade sauce will bring incredible flavor and convenience to your meals. From pasta to pizza and everything in between, let the deliciousness begin!
