Summer tomatoes at their peak are a culinary delight, bursting with flavor and sunshine. But what happens when that tomato avalanche hits, and you can’t possibly eat them all? Enter the art of canning! This guide will walk you through the process of making and canning delicious stewed tomatoes, ensuring you have a taste of summer all year round.
The Importance of Canning
Canning is not just a method of food preservation; it’s a way to capture the essence of the season. Stewed tomatoes are versatile, making them perfect for pasta dishes, soups, sauces, and more. Plus, there's something wonderfully satisfying about opening a jar of your own homemade goodness in the middle of winter.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Fresh Tomatoes: About 10-12 pounds (Roma or beefsteak tomatoes are great choices)
- Onions: 2 large, diced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Bell Peppers: 2, chopped (optional for sweetness)
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 tablespoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Herbs: 1 tablespoon (basil, oregano, and thyme are fantastic choices)
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (helps ensure safe acidity levels for canning)
Equipment:
- Canning jars and lids (pint or quart size)
- Large stockpot
- Canning funnel
- Ladle
- Water bath canner or large pot with a lid
- Jar lifter
- Clean towels
Step-by-Step Preparation Tips
1. Select and Prep Your Tomatoes
The first step to perfect stewed tomatoes is selecting the best tomatoes. Look for firm, ripe ones with no blemishes. Wash them thoroughly, and then core and chop them into quarters.
Pro Tip: For a smoother texture, you can peel your tomatoes. An easy way to do this is by blanching them for a minute in boiling water, then transferring them to an ice bath before slipping off the skins.
2. Sauté Your Aromatics
In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers (if using). Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor to your final product.
3. Combine and Simmer
Add the chopped tomatoes, celery, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs to the pot. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.
4. Add Acid for Safety
Once your tomatoes are stewed to perfection, it’s time to add the lemon juice. This is critical for safe canning as it helps maintain acidity levels.
Canning Your Stewed Tomatoes
5. Prepare Your Jars
Before you can start filling them, ensure your jars are clean. You can sterilize them in a hot dishwasher cycle or place them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
6. Fill Your Jars
Using a canning funnel and ladle, fill each jar with the hot stewed tomato mixture, leaving about 1/2-inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean towel to ensure a good seal.
7. Seal and Process
Place the lids on the jars, and screw on the rings until they’re fingertip tight (don’t over-tighten!). Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35-40 minutes for pint jars or 40-45 minutes for quart jars. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch.
8. Cool and Store
Once the processing time is up, carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel to cool completely. You should hear the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing as they cool.
Storage Tip: Store your sealed jars in a cool, dark place. They can last for up to a year, but once you pop that lid, it’s hard to resist devouring every last spoonful!
Creative Serving Suggestions
Stewed tomatoes aren’t just for preservation; they can be a star ingredient in your kitchen! Here are some delicious ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Classic Tomato Sauce: Use it as a base for pasta sauces or chili.
- Savory Stews: Stir them into beef or vegetable stews for extra flavor.
- Shakshuka: Make a delightful breakfast dish by poaching eggs in the stewed tomatoes with spices.
- Hearty Soups: Blend with broth, cream, and herbs for a comforting tomato soup.
Fun Fact: The Cultural Significance of Tomatoes
Did you know that tomatoes were once thought to be poisonous? Initially introduced to Europe in the 16th century, they were met with skepticism. Today, tomatoes are a staple in global cuisine, featured in everything from Italian pasta to Mexican salsas. Their adaptability is one of the reasons they are loved worldwide!
Conclusion
Canning your own stewed tomatoes is not just a practical way to extend the life of your summer harvest; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and savor the joys of preserving summer in a jar. Happy canning!
