Canning Tomato Sauce: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Preserving Summer's Bounty
Summer is the perfect time to make delicious tomato sauce, and what better way to preserve the flavor than by canning it? This easy recipe will allow you to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes year-round.
Ingredients:
- 10 pounds ripe tomatoes (choose tomatoes that are firm and have a deep red color)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Wash and core the tomatoes.
- Cut the tomatoes into quarters or smaller pieces.
- Place the cut tomatoes in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened.
2. Process the Tomatoes:
- While the tomatoes are simmering, sterilize your jars and lids. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Once the tomatoes are soft, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to crush them into a purée. Strain the purée through a sieve to remove seeds and skins, if desired.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the tomato purée to the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Can the Sauce:
- Carefully ladle the hot sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any spills.
- Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are finger-tight.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes (for pints) or 45 minutes (for quarts). This is essential for safety and long-term preservation.
- Carefully remove the jars from the boiling water bath and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Enjoy!
- Once the jars have cooled completely, you should hear a "pop" sound as the lids seal.
- Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
- Enjoy your homemade tomato sauce on pasta, pizza, or as a base for soups and stews.
Tips:
- Use different herbs and spices: Experiment with different flavors by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
- Add a little sweetness: A pinch of sugar can help to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- For a smoother sauce: Use a food mill instead of a sieve to remove the seeds and skins.
- Freeze the sauce: If you prefer not to can your sauce, you can freeze it for up to 6 months.
Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade tomato sauce all year round!
