Stewed Tomatoes for Canning: A Classic Recipe for a Flavorful Pantry Staple
Stewed tomatoes are a quintessential pantry staple, offering a burst of flavor and versatility in countless recipes. This simple yet satisfying recipe provides a delicious base for sauces, soups, stews, and even chili. The best part? You can preserve the fresh taste of summer tomatoes for enjoyment throughout the year!
Here's what you'll need to make your own delicious stewed tomatoes:
Ingredients:
- 8 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Prepare your jars: Sterilize your jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In a large stockpot, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, celery, green pepper, parsley, sugar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Simmer and reduce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the mixture has thickened slightly.
- Ladle into jars: Carefully ladle the hot stewed tomatoes into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean.
- Process in a water bath: Place the filled jars in a large pot with a rack, ensuring the jars are covered by at least an inch of water. Bring the water to a boil, then process the jars for 30 minutes (for pint jars) or 40 minutes (for quart jars).
- Cool and store: Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel to cool. Once cool, check the lids for a seal (they should be concave and not pop up when pressed).
Tips and Variations:
- Use different tomatoes: Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes for a unique flavor. Roma tomatoes are great for their firmness and low-seed count, while heirloom varieties offer a rich, complex taste.
- Add spices: Enhance the flavor with your favorite spices, like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or paprika.
- Make it chunky or smooth: For a chunky texture, leave some of the tomatoes whole. If you prefer a smoother consistency, puree the mixture before canning.
- Enjoy your stewed tomatoes! Use them in soups, sauces, stews, chili, or simply enjoy them on toast for a flavorful and easy meal.
Canning Safety:
- Always use a tested recipe: Canning recipes are carefully calibrated for safety and ensure the proper acidity level to prevent botulism.
- Sterilize your equipment: Proper sterilization is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and ensure the safety of your canned goods.
- Follow processing times: Under-processing can lead to spoilage, so it's essential to follow the recommended processing time for your particular recipe and jar size.
With a bit of effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a pantry full of delicious and nutritious stewed tomatoes. Enjoy the satisfying taste of homemade goodness all year round!
