Cherry tomatoes in broth without preservatives

The delightful taste that cherry tomatoes in preservative-free broth offer us is a true gift from nature, perfect for adding flavor to your dishes. This simple and delicious recipe will not only provide you with a healthy option for winter but will transform every plate into an explosion of flavor. Whether you use them in soups, broths, sauces for pasta or pizza, cherry tomatoes will bring joy in every bite.

The history of cherry tomatoes is fascinating, with origins in South America, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years. Over time, these small, sweet tomatoes have become popular worldwide, appreciated not only for their exceptional taste but also for their versatility in the kitchen. With today's recipe, you will learn how to preserve this delicacy for the cold season, without additives or preservatives.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 4 kg ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 1 kg sweet, aromatic cherry tomatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- Sugar (to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure to choose quality tomatoes. The tomatoes should be well-ripened, soft but not spoiled, while the cherry tomatoes should be full of flavor, without spots or imperfections. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities.

Step 2: Cutting the tomatoes
Cut the tomatoes in halves or quarters, depending on their size. You can leave the cherry tomatoes whole, but if they are very large, you can cut them in half. This step will help release the juice from the tomatoes, making the cooking process easier.

Step 3: Cooking the tomatoes
Place the cut tomatoes in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. The salt will help extract the juice from the tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the tomatoes start to boil, reduce the heat and let them simmer gently for about 1-1.5 hours. This process will thicken the broth and intensify the flavor.

Step 4: Blending the mixture
After the tomatoes have boiled, it’s time to blend them. Use an immersion blender to turn the mixture into a smooth paste. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some larger pieces. It is important to ensure that no seeds or skins remain for a smooth broth.

Step 5: Final cooking
Return the obtained broth to the pot and add the cherry tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now is the time to adjust the taste with salt and sugar, according to your preferences. The sugar is optional but can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 6: Bottling the broth
Prepare sterilized jars. You can do this either by boiling them or running them through a dishwasher cycle. Fill the jars with the hot broth, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Put on the lids and make sure they are tightly sealed.

Step 7: The preservation process
To ensure that your broth keeps well during winter, you can pasteurize the jars. Place the jars in a large pot filled with water and boil them for 15-20 minutes. This process will destroy bacteria and help preserve the broth. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in the pantry.

Serving suggestion:
To enjoy your cherry tomato broth, I recommend using it as a base for pasta sauces. Add some herbs like basil or oregano, a drizzle of olive oil, and grated parmesan for a delicious sauce. You can also use it in vegetable soup or broth, bringing a fresh and flavorful touch to your dishes.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Of course! You can experiment with other varieties of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes add a natural sweetness that is hard to replicate.

2. How long does the broth last?
If properly sealed, your broth can last up to a year in the pantry. Once opened, consume it within 5-7 days.

3. Can I cook the broth in smaller quantities?
Sure! You can adjust the proportions of the ingredients according to your needs, but make sure to keep the same ratio of tomato tomatoes to cherry tomatoes to achieve a balanced taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin K, and contain antioxidants that can contribute to heart health. They are also low in calories, with only 18 calories per 100g, making them ideal for diets.

Personal tip:
To enhance the flavor of the broth, you can add a few cloves of garlic or finely chopped onion during cooking. This will add depth and complexity to the final taste.

Sugar-free option:
If you prefer a sugar-free version, you can completely omit this ingredient or use a natural substitute, such as agave syrup, in smaller amounts.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Cherry tomatoes in preservative-free broth are an excellent choice to add flavor and health to your dishes during winter. Whether you enjoy them with family or share them with friends, they will surely bring a smile to everyone's face. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!