Delicious and Easy Tomato Sauce Recipes for Canning
Tomato sauce is a pantry staple that adds flavor to countless dishes, from pasta to pizza to soups. And what better way to enjoy the fresh taste of summer tomatoes than by canning your own homemade sauce? Not only is it cost-effective, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and create a unique flavor profile tailored to your taste buds.
This guide will provide you with two easy-to-follow recipes for canning tomato sauce. We will cover everything from choosing the right tomatoes to sterilizing jars, ensuring you can confidently create your own delicious, long-lasting sauce.
Recipe 1: Classic Tomato Sauce
Yields: Approximately 6 pints Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 10 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Jars: Wash and sterilize six pint jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped tomatoes and blanch for 1-2 minutes. Drain the tomatoes in a colander and transfer to a food mill or blender. Puree the tomatoes until smooth.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the pureed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Can the Sauce: Ladle the hot sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten securely.
- Process the Jars: Place the filled jars in a large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 30 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Once cool, check the lids for a seal by pressing down in the center. If the lid doesn't move, the jar is sealed. Store your canned tomato sauce in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Recipe 2: Roasted Tomato Sauce
Yields: Approximately 6 pints Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 10 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Jars: Wash and sterilize six pint jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the halved tomatoes, onions, and garlic with olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Sauce: Transfer the roasted tomatoes, onions, and garlic to a blender or food mill and puree until smooth.
- Cook the Sauce: Heat the pureed sauce in a large stockpot over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Can the Sauce: Ladle the hot sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten securely.
- Process the Jars: Place the filled jars in a large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 30 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Once cool, check the lids for a seal by pressing down in the center. If the lid doesn't move, the jar is sealed. Store your canned tomato sauce in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: Select ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant, aromatic flavor to your sauce.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked tomato sauce can become thick and bitter.
- Properly Seal the Jars: Ensure that your jars are properly sealed to prevent spoilage.
Enjoy Your Homemade Tomato Sauce
Now you are ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Your homemade tomato sauce will add a burst of fresh flavor to all your favorite dishes. So grab a jar, open it up, and savor the taste of summer in every bite.
