Come Get Inspired With 13 Different Ways To Preserve Tomatoes

Canning Stewed Tomatoes is simply a recipe including peppers and onions

Cover Canning Stewed Tomatoes is simply a recipe including peppers and onions (500x750)

Table of Contents

1. Why Preserve Tomatoes?
2. What is Pressure Steam Canning?
3. How To Heat Pressure Steam Can Tomatoes?
4. Benefits of Pressure Steam Canning
5. Tips for Successful Pressure Steam Canning

Why Preserve Tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From using them in sauces and soups to making salsa and salads, tomatoes add a burst of flavor to any dish. However, tomatoes have a relatively short shelf life, especially when they are ripe and ready to eat. That's why many people choose to preserve tomatoes to enjoy their fresh taste throughout the year.

By preserving tomatoes, you can extend their shelf life and have access to the vibrant flavor and nutrients they offer even when they are out of season. Additionally, preserving tomatoes allows you to save money by buying them in bulk when they are in season and at their lowest price.

What is Pressure Steam Canning?

Pressure steam canning is a method of preserving food, including tomatoes, by using a combination of heat and pressure to create a sealed environment that kills bacteria, yeasts, and molds that can cause spoilage. This method is particularly effective for low-acid foods, such as tomatoes, which require higher temperatures to ensure their safety.

During pressure steam canning, tomatoes are placed in jars along with a suitable acidic liquid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to ensure their pH is below 4.6. The jars are then sealed and placed in a pressure canner, which heats the contents to a temperature of at least 240°F (116°C) for a specific amount of time. This high temperature and pressure combination destroys harmful microorganisms and creates a vacuum seal, preventing the growth of new bacteria.

How To Heat Pressure Steam Can Tomatoes?

To heat pressure steam can tomatoes, you will need the following equipment and ingredients:

• Tomatoes
• Jars
• Pressure canner
• Acidic liquid (such as lemon juice or vinegar)
• Canning salt (optional)

Here is a step-by-step guide to heat pressure steam can tomatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Remove the stems and any blemishes from the tomatoes. If desired, you can blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute and then transfer them to an ice bath to easily remove the skins.

Step 2: Prepare the Jars

Wash the jars and lids with warm, soapy water, and rinse them well. Inspect the jars for any cracks or chips that could prevent a proper seal. Place the jars in a large pot filled with water and bring it to a simmer to sterilize them.

Step 3: Add Acidic Liquid

Before filling the jars with tomatoes, add the recommended amount of acidic liquid to each jar. The acidic liquid helps to maintain the proper pH level to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. The exact amount of acidic liquid needed will depend on the size of the jars and the type of tomatoes you are using.

Step 4: Pack the Jars

Fill the jars with the prepared tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. If desired, you can add a small amount of canning salt to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes. Use a bubble remover or a non-metallic utensil to remove any air bubbles from the jars.

Step 5: Seal the Jars

Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any food particles or liquid. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight. The bands should be tightened enough to hold the lids in place but not overly tight.

Step 6: Process in the Pressure Canner

Place the filled and sealed jars in the pressure canner, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the canner is properly vented and that the pressure gauge is functioning correctly. Process the jars at the recommended pressure and time for tomatoes, typically 10-15 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure canner to cool naturally. Do not force-cool the canner by running it under cold water or opening the vent. Once the pressure has returned to zero and the canner is cool, carefully remove the jars and place them on a towel or cooling rack. Let the jars cool completely before checking the seals and storing them in a cool, dark place.

Benefits of Pressure Steam Canning

Pressure steam canning offers several benefits for preserving tomatoes and other low-acid foods:

• Extended Shelf Life: Properly pressure steam canned tomatoes can last for up to a year or more, allowing you to enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes long after their season has ended.
• Nutrient Retention: Pressure steam canning preserves the nutritional value of tomatoes, ensuring that you can still benefit from their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants even after they have been preserved.
• Convenience: Having jars of ready-to-use canned tomatoes in your pantry makes meal preparation quick and easy. You can simply open a jar and add the tomatoes to your favorite recipes without the need for washing, chopping, or cooking fresh tomatoes.
• Cost Savings: By preserving tomatoes when they are in season and at their peak freshness, you can save money compared to buying out-of-season tomatoes that may be more expensive and of lower quality.

Tips for Successful Pressure Steam Canning

Follow these tips to ensure successful pressure steam canning:

• Use only ripe and high-quality tomatoes for canning. Overripe or damaged tomatoes may affect the quality and safety of the preserved product.
• Always follow a tested and reliable recipe for pressure steam canning tomatoes. This ensures that the correct processing time, pressure, and acidity levels are met for safe preservation.
• Inspect the jars for any cracks or chips before using them. Damaged jars may not seal properly, leading to spoilage.
• Properly adjust the pressure and processing time according to your altitude. Higher altitudes require longer processing times and higher pressure to achieve the desired safety levels.
• Store the canned tomatoes in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage. Check the seals regularly and discard any jars with broken or compromised seals.

Conclusion

Heat pressure steam canning is an effective method for preserving tomatoes and extending their shelf life. By following the proper techniques and guidelines, you can safely can tomatoes and enjoy their fresh taste and nutritional benefits throughout the year. Whether you're making sauces, soups, or salsas, having jars of pressure steam canned tomatoes in your pantry provides convenience and cost savings. So, don't let your excess tomatoes go to waste – try pressure steam canning and enjoy the flavors of summer all year long.