Organic preserved tomatoes

Organic Tomatoes Preserved with Basil and Garlic

Do you dream of summer days when tomatoes are sun-ripened and full of flavor? I suggest you keep that wonderful aroma during the cold season with a simple and delicious recipe for preserved organic tomatoes. This recipe will not only bring a touch of summer to your table but will also add an unmistakable taste to your dishes. Moreover, it is a preservative-free recipe, perfect for a healthy diet!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 10 jars of 1 liter

Ingredients:

- 10 kg organic tomatoes (choose ripe and firm varieties)
- 2 large heads of garlic (fresh for an intense aroma)
- 100 g fresh basil (aromatic leaves, essential for flavor)
- Optional: salt (for an extra flavor)

Preparation of Preserved Tomatoes

1. Washing the Tomatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the tomatoes under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and pesticides. If you prefer a finer texture, you can peel them, but it is not mandatory.

2. Cutting the Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into large slices. Make sure the slices are of uniform thickness, so they preserve evenly. These slices will be essential to give you a pleasant texture in your dishes.

3. Filling the Jars: Prepare the jars by sterilizing them. Place the tomato slices in the jars without pressing them too hard – it is important to leave room for air that may remain between them. Fill the jars to the brim, but do not overcrowd them.

4. Adding Flavors: In each jar, add 2-3 peeled garlic cloves and a few fresh basil leaves. The garlic will provide an intense and comforting aroma, while the basil will add a fresh note, specific to Mediterranean dishes.

5. Preparing for Preservation: Take a large pot and place a towel or cloth at the bottom to protect the jars from excessive heat. Arrange the jars in the pot, side by side. Add water up to the level of the jar lids. This step is crucial to ensure even preservation.

6. Boiling: Put the pot on medium heat and wait for it to boil. Once the water starts to boil, let it boil for 15-20 minutes. This process will help destroy bacteria and maintain the freshness of the tomatoes.

7. Cooling the Jars: Turn off the heat and cover the pot with aluminum foil or a lid. Let the jars cool in the hot water until the next day. This step helps create a vacuum in the jars, essential for long-term preservation.

8. Storing: Remove the jars from the water, carefully wipe them, and label them. Then, store them in your pantry, in a cool, dark place. The preserved tomatoes will be ready to add flavor to any dish.

Practical Tips

- Tomato Selection: Choose organic, ripe, and firm tomatoes to achieve the best flavor. Tomatoes of different varieties can add varied flavor nuances.
- Varieties: You can experiment by adding other herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to provide a different aroma.
- Usage: These preserved tomatoes are excellent for making pasta sauces, soups, or broths. You can also use them as a topping for pizza or in salads.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and lycopene, a compound beneficial for heart health. By preserving them, you retain all these essential nutrients, making them a healthy choice for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of tomatoes? Yes, you can experiment with different tomato varieties, but make sure they are all ripe and tasty.
- How can I check if the jars are sealed properly? A simple method is to press on the jar lid; if it does not return to its original position, the jar is sealed well.
- What can I do if the jars are not sealed properly? If you notice that a jar has not sealed correctly, you can keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days.

Serving and Combinations

These preserved tomatoes are perfect served alongside fresh pasta, with a drizzle of olive oil and grated parmesan. You can also combine them with fresh goat cheese and olives for a delicious snack. A glass of red wine will perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Preserved tomatoes will remind you of warm summer days even in the coldest winter months. With each jar opened, you will savor the authentic taste of fresh tomatoes, unaltered by preservatives. So, unleash your imagination in the kitchen and enjoy the flavor of preserved tomatoes! Enjoy your meal!