Tomato juice

Tomato Juice Recipe – A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 26 bottles of 750 ml

Tomato juice is a versatile, flavorful ingredient that can transform any dish. This tomato juice recipe uses elongated tomatoes, also known as "plum tomatoes" or "Roma tomatoes," famous for their concentrated flavor and natural sweetness. Preparing tomato juice is a tradition passed down through generations, serving as an excellent way to preserve fresh tomatoes and enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year.

Necessary ingredients:

- Elongated tomatoes (plum tomatoes) – the amount depends on personal preferences and the size of the pot, but for a 30-liter pot, approximately 15-20 kg of tomatoes are needed.
- 750 ml wide-mouth bottles with screw caps – about 26 bottles.
- Bottle caps.

Step-by-step preparation of tomato juice:

1. Washing the tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under running water. It is essential to ensure they are clean, as they will be used for juice that you will preserve for a long time.

2. Cutting the tomatoes: Cut each tomato in half. This will help release the juice during the cooking process.

3. Separating the juice: Use a tomato strainer to obtain the juice. This step is important as it allows you to get a smooth juice without seeds and skins. Fill the 30-liter pot with the obtained juice.

4. Cooking the juice: Place the pot over medium heat. It is important to stay close at first, as the juice may boil over. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Once the juice starts to boil, you can reduce the frequency of stirring.

5. Reducing the juice: Let the juice boil until it reduces by about three fingers. This will concentrate the flavors and enhance the final taste.

6. Preparing the bottles: While the juice is boiling, prepare the bottles. Rinse them well with warm water, then place them in the oven at a temperature of 120°C for 10-15 minutes to ensure they are completely dry and sterile.

7. Filling the bottles: Once the juice is ready, take the pot off the heat. Use a ladle to carefully pour the juice into the bottles. It is recommended to pour a little into each bottle to avoid breaking them due to the heat.

8. Sealing the bottles: Once the bottles are full, place the caps on and wipe them with a damp cloth to remove any juice droplets.

9. Cooling the bottles: Place the bottles on a stainless steel tray and then wrap them well with cloths and blankets to keep them warm. Leave them covered for three days so that the sterilization process can finish effectively.

10. Storing: After three days, you can store them in a pantry or in cool places. Tomato juice keeps well for up to two years, so you can enjoy the taste of summer even in the middle of winter.

Practical tips:

- Quality tomatoes: Choose ripe and healthy tomatoes, free from spots or signs of damage. This will directly influence the flavor of your juice.
- Spice variation: If you wish, you can add fresh basil or oregano during cooking to give a flavorful note to the juice.
- Using leftovers: The remaining skins and seeds can be used to make tomato sauce or enrich a broth.
- Frequently asked questions:
- How long is the shelf life of tomato juice? Tomato juice keeps well for up to two years if properly sealed and stored in optimal conditions.
- How can I use tomato juice? You can use tomato juice to make sauces, soups, stews, or even cocktails.
- Can I add sugar to the juice? If the tomatoes are not sweet enough, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.

Nutritional benefits: Tomato juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants, having health benefits such as boosting the immune system and supporting heart health.

Culinary combinations: Tomato juice pairs perfectly with pasta, pizza, or as a base for soups. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as a vodka and tomato juice cocktail, known as a Bloody Mary.

Unique detail: To add a personal touch, you can label the bottles with the date you prepared them and a short description of the ingredients used. This can turn your tomato juice bottles into perfect gifts for friends and family.

Making tomato juice is not only a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to enjoy seasonal tomatoes in a delicious way. Follow the steps above and enjoy the final result – a homemade tomato juice, full of flavor and natural goodness!