Delicious and Easy Ball Canning Recipes for Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a staple in many kitchens, and canning it allows you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer all year round. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a pantry full of homemade tomato sauce that's perfect for pasta, pizza, and more.
Before You Begin
- Gather your supplies: You'll need jars, lids, rings, a large pot for boiling, a funnel, a jar lifter, and a ladle.
- Sterilize your jars and lids: Wash them in hot, soapy water and then boil them for 10 minutes to ensure they are free of bacteria.
- Prepare your tomatoes: Wash and chop them. You can use fresh, ripe tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes.
Classic Tomato Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 10 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Process the sauce: Ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. Place lids and rings on the jars.
- Can the sauce: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe tomatoes: This will ensure the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the sauce: It should be thick but not overly reduced.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Label and date your jars: This will help you keep track of your canned goods.
Other Delicious Variations:
- Roasted Tomato Sauce: Roast the tomatoes for 30 minutes before adding them to the pot.
- Garlic Tomato Sauce: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the sautéed vegetables.
- Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Enjoy your homemade tomato sauce! Store it in a cool, dark place for up to a year. This is a great recipe to make in large batches, allowing you to enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes even when they're out of season.
