Preserving Fresh Tomatoes for 2 Years Without Vinegar: The Foolproof Method
Crafting tomato preserves is a breeze, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Say goodbye to supermarket runs for winter tomatoes!
Tomato preserves are versatile additions to meals, perfect for enhancing fresh dishes like basil-infused spaghetti sauce or seasoning various culinary creations. They’re a lifesaver year-round, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season, offering homemade goodness without relying on store-bought alternatives.
While summer is prime time for preserving tomatoes, there’s a method that extends their shelf life up to two years. All it takes is some patience, fresh tomatoes (ideally from your own garden), and plenty of basil.
The key to a delicious tomato preserve lies in the ripeness and variety of tomatoes used, determining the preserve’s flavor. If you’re unsure, consulting your local greengrocer is wise. Additionally, preparing the sauce a couple of days after purchasing the tomatoes can enhance the final product.
A telltale sign of ripe tomatoes is when the stem easily detaches from the fruit. Before consuming, always ensure that the jars storing the tomato sauce remain unchanged in flavor, color, and aroma throughout storage. Any alteration indicates spoilage and warrants disposal.
Proper sterilization of the jars is crucial for successful preservation. Here’s the recipe for achieving 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, immerse the jars in boiling water in a pan to create a vacuum. Store in a cool, dry place.
Ensuring a tight seal and vacuum is crucial for extending the tomatoes’ shelf life. With this method, you’ll always have homemade preservatives at your fingertips, ready to elevate any dish, from a quick spaghetti to flavorful seasonings!
