How to make tomato juice with basil

Tomato juice with basil - An explosion of flavor and freshness in every drop

Do you dream of a truly special tomato sauce, full of taste and aroma? Tomato juice with basil is the perfect answer. This recipe is not just a way to preserve delicious tomatoes but also an opportunity to add a touch of magic to your dishes. Whether you use it in soups, pasta, or even on pizza, this tomato juice with basil will transform every meal into a culinary experience worthy of a top restaurant.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars

Main ingredients:

- 12 kg of large, juicy, and healthy tomatoes (ideally, use garden tomatoes like those from Izbiceni)
- 9 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of salt
- 3 tablespoons of dried basil, crushed (or fresh basil, if you prefer)

Preparing the tomato juice with basil:

Step 1: Washing and preparing the tomatoes
Start by thoroughly washing the tomatoes under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities from their surface. After washing, cut each tomato in half. This will help the blender process them more easily.

Step 2: Grinding the tomatoes
Place the tomato halves in a blender. Use a powerful blender to achieve a fine and smooth mixture. If you don’t have a strong enough blender, you can use a food processor. Blend until you get a delicious tomato puree.

Step 3: Cooking the juice
Transfer the tomato puree to a large pot. Here, the secret is to let the juice simmer slowly. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for about 30 minutes. If you are using a Zepter pot, the cooking time will be significantly reduced. It is important to stir periodically to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Seasoning
After the juice has reduced and acquired a pleasant consistency, add the salt, sugar, and basil. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide a perfect balance between sweet and salty. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Sterilizing the jars
While the tomato juice cools slightly, prepare the jars. It is essential to sterilize them to prevent contamination. You can do this by scalding them in boiling water for a few minutes. Then, let them dry on a clean towel.

Step 6: Filling the jars
When the juice has cooled slightly, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. This will allow for the expansion of the juice during freezing. Seal the jars tightly to maintain the freshness of the juice.

Step 7: Cooling and storing
Let the jars cool completely at room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark place. The tomato juice with basil can be kept for several months, providing you with fresh flavor in every season.

Serving suggestions and combinations:
Tomato juice with basil pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Use it as a base for soups or broths, adding fresh vegetables and meat for a hearty lunch.
- Add it to pasta, along with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for a quick and tasty meal.
- Serve it on pizza, as a base sauce, before adding cheese and your favorite toppings.

Nutritional benefits:
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Basil adds not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Tips and useful advice:
- You can experiment with different types of basil (sweet basil, lemon basil) to achieve unique flavors.
- If you want a spicier sauce, you can add some chili flakes or chopped hot peppers.
- Make sure the tomatoes are well-ripened, as this will influence the final flavor of the juice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Although fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, you can also use canned tomatoes in their absence. Choose varieties without additives.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to get a thicker sauce?
If you prefer a more concentrated sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

3. Is it necessary to add sugar?
Sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but you can reduce the amount or omit it completely if you prefer a more sour taste.

4. Can I freeze the tomato juice with basil?
Yes, the juice can be frozen. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.

This tomato juice with basil recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to preserve the flavor of summer throughout the year. So, put on your apron and enjoy this culinary experience!

 Ingredients: 12 kg tomatoes (I had large, fat, healthy ones from Izbiceni) 9 tablespoons of sugar 6 tablespoons of salt 3 tablespoons of dried crushed basil

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