Cherry in a jar

Simple Cherry Tomato Canning Recipe

When it comes to preserving fresh cherry tomatoes, nothing compares to the intense aroma and flavor you get from a jar of homemade canned tomatoes. These little delights, sweet and juicy, are perfect for adding a fresh touch to various dishes, from salads and sauces to pizza or pasta. Below, I will present an engaging and easy-to-follow recipe for canning cherry tomatoes, so you can enjoy them throughout the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 1 kg of fresh cherry tomatoes
- 1 liter of tomato juice (can be obtained from fresh tomatoes or from a 400g can of tomato paste dissolved in water)
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt (for a more intense flavor)
- Sterilized jars with lids

A bit of history

Preserving vegetables and fruits is an ancient practice used by generations to ensure food during winter. Cherry tomatoes, due to their small size and sweet taste, have become increasingly popular worldwide, being used not only in culinary dishes but also in preserves. Canning tomatoes in jars is a traditional method that not only enhances flavor but also retains essential nutrients.

Step by step: Preparing cherry tomatoes for canning

Step 1: Preparing the tomatoes

1. Wash the cherry tomatoes: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities or pesticides.

2. Blanch the tomatoes: In a large pot, add water and salt. Place the cherry tomatoes in the salted water and let them boil for 10-15 minutes. This process helps with easier peeling.

Step 2: Peeling the tomatoes

3. Remove the tomatoes from the water: After boiling, take the cherry tomatoes out of the water and let them cool slightly. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a bowl of cold water, which will help stop the cooking process.

4. Peeling: When the tomatoes have cooled sufficiently, carefully peel them. The skin should come off easily due to the blanching process.

Step 3: Filling the jars

5. Prepare the jars: Ensure that the jars are well sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by using an oven.

6. Fill the jars: Place the peeled tomatoes in the jars, leaving a little space at the top. Fill the jars with fresh tomato juice, ensuring that the tomatoes are completely covered.

7. Add salt: If desired, you can add a teaspoon of salt to each jar to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Sterilizing the jars

8. Screw on the lids: Place the lids on the jars and make sure they are tightly screwed on, but without over-tightening.

9. Boil the jars: Place the jars in a large pot of water and let them boil for 1 hour. This process will seal the jars, ensuring that the tomatoes remain fresh and delicious.

10. Let cool: After the boiling time has elapsed, remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely. It is important to let them cool in the water to prevent the jars from cracking.

Serving suggestions

These canned cherry tomatoes are ideal for use in various dishes. You can add them to salads, pasta sauces, pizza, or even use them as a garnish for different meals.

Possible variations

- Spiced tomatoes: You can add herbs like basil or oregano to the jars for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Spicy tomatoes: Add a few slices of chili pepper to give a kick to your tomatoes.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can also use regular tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes have a sweeter taste and a more pleasant texture.

2. How can I store the jars?
Store the jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, the tomatoes should be kept in the fridge and consumed within a few days.

3. What can I do with the leftover tomato juice?
The leftover juice can be used in soups, sauces, or even as a base for cocktails.

Nutritional benefits

Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and contain lycopene, which is known for its health benefits. They are low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

With this simple recipe, you can keep the summer flavor all year round. Not only will you have access to the fresh taste of cherry tomatoes, but you will also add a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy the magic of preserving tomatoes!