Oregano broth

Oregano Broth - A Winter Delicacy

Every year, as summer bids farewell and autumn makes its presence felt, homemakers around the world prepare to preserve the garden's bounty. I propose a simple recipe for oregano broth that will not only transform fresh tomato juice into a flavorful base for sauces, soups, or stews but will also add a distinct note of flavor. This recipe is personal, passed down from generation to generation, and I am sure it will become your favorite too!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 90 minutes + 15 minutes
Total: Approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes
Servings: Approximately 10 liters of broth

Ingredients:

- 12 kg fresh, ripe tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons pickling salt
- 5 teaspoons dried oregano
- Clean, sterilized bottles with caps

Ingredient Details:

Tomatoes are the base ingredient of this broth. Choose ripe, seasonal tomatoes, preferably from the garden, as they have a more intense flavor and natural aroma. Oregano adds not only a wonderful taste but also nutritional benefits, being known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pickling salt is ideal for preserving the broth, ensuring the flavor is retained.

Step by Step: Preparing the Broth

1. Harvesting and Washing the Tomatoes: Start by picking tomatoes from the garden. Choose only ripe, healthy ones. After harvesting, wash them well under a stream of cold water to remove impurities.

2. Cutting the Tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. There is no need to remove the skin, as it will contribute to a richer broth.

3. Extracting Tomato Juice: Use a special juicer (or a blender, followed by straining to remove pulp). You will obtain approximately 10 liters of tomato juice. This is the essence of your broth!

4. Boiling the Juice: Place the tomato juice in a large pot over low heat. It is important to use a pot large enough to avoid spilling. Let the juice simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Removing Foam: During boiling, foam will appear on top. Use a skimmer to remove it. This step will ensure a clearer and more aesthetically pleasing broth.

6. Adding Salt: After 90 minutes, add the pickling salt to the tomato juice and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. This step is essential for preserving the broth.

7. Adding Oregano: Consider adding oregano at this stage to infuse the broth with a delicious aroma. Oregano is an aromatic herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.

8. Bottling the Broth: Once the broth has boiled, carefully pour it into the sterile bottles, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them well.

9. Drying Process: Place the bottles in a warm spot, between blankets, to cool slowly for 24 hours. This process helps seal the broth.

10. Labeling and Storing: After 24 hours, label each bottle with the date and contents, then store them in the pantry. They will be ready to provide a taste of summer during the winter.

Serving Suggestions and Combinations:

Oregano broth is extremely versatile. You can use it as a base for pasta sauces, soups, or stews. Additionally, you can combine it with other ingredients such as ground meat, vegetables, or aromatic herbs to create delicious dishes. I recommend serving it with a slice of toasted bread and grated cheese on top for a comforting lunch.

Tips and Practical Advice:

To preserve the broth's flavor, ensure that the bottles are properly cleaned and sterilized. You can use hot water to sterilize them and let them dry well before filling. Also, if you want a spicier broth, you can add a pinch of dried chili pepper.

Nutritional Benefits:

This broth is not only tasty but also healthy. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Oregano, on the other hand, adds extra antioxidants and may aid digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can the broth be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the broth in airtight containers. Make sure to leave a little space for liquid expansion.

2. Can I use other herbs? Absolutely! You can experiment with basil or thyme for a different flavor.

3. How can I use the broth? It is ideal for making soups, pasta sauces, or even as a base for gratin dishes.

A Personal Note:

Every time I prepare the broth, I remember the moments spent in the garden with my grandmother, who told me about the magic of tomatoes and how they can bring a bit of sunshine into the cold winter. This broth is not just a recipe but a precious memory and a connection to family traditions.

Try this oregano broth recipe and let your creativity soar! You will discover that each jar you open brings not only a delicious aroma but also a piece of your summer. Enjoy!