7 ways to preserve tomatoes
Summer is the height of tomato season. It’s the best time to enjoy a big juicy slice of tomato on your sandwich or a fresh Caprese salad with tangy balsamic vinaigrette. But what about enjoying tomatoes the rest of the year?
Summer is the time to stock up on these red beauties and preserve their perfect taste for later. Here are seven simple ways to save your tomatoes and use them all year round.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This guide to preserving tomatoes is perfect for anyone who wishes to savor the taste of summer all year long. These techniques are easy to follow, require minimal equipment, and offer a variety of ways to enjoy tomatoes long after the season ends.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- Freezer
- Dehydrator (optional)
- Food processor
- Jars with lids
- Quart-sized freezer bags
- Boiling pot
Ingredients
- Fresh tomatoes
- Salt
- Dried basil
- Lemon
- Onion
- Cilantro
- Cayenne pepper
- Serrano pepper
- Lime
- Garlic
- Olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Dry Tomatoes in the Oven
Remove the pulp and core from the tomatoes, then season. Place the seasoned tomatoes directly on the racks and bake at 200°F (93 C) for 4 to 6 hours, or until the edges are shriveled. Cool then store in jars covered with olive oil. These will keep in the refrigerator for 2 months.
2. Freeze Tomatoes
Peel and quarter tomatoes, then store them in quart-sized freezer bags. Remove any air from the bags before sealing and freezing.
3. Make Tomato Jam
Peel tomatoes and make jam by adding lemon for flavor. This unique jam is a delightful breakfast treat.
4. Can Tomatoes
Cube tomatoes and place them in tightly sealed jars. Place jars in a cool oven, set to 275°F (135 C), and leave for 75 minutes. Allow to cool and listen for the lids to pop as a sign of proper sealing.
5. Make Tomato Chips
Use a dehydrator to make tomato chips seasoned with salt and dried basil. These are a healthy alternative to potato chips.
6. Make Tomato Paste
Condense the rich flavor of tomatoes into a paste, which can be jarred or frozen for up to 9 months.
7. Make Five Minute Salsa
Blend tomatoes with onion, cilantro, cayenne pepper, serrano pepper, lime, salt, and garlic in a food processor for a quick and fresh salsa.
Tips for Success
- Ensure tomatoes are ripe and fresh for the best flavor.
- Use airtight containers to prolong preservation.
- Label and date your preserved tomatoes for easy identification.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to your dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Try different peppers in your salsa for varying heat levels.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Tomatoes are low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C. They contain antioxidants like lycopene, which offer numerous health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use cherry tomatoes for these methods?
A: Yes, cherry tomatoes can be used, particularly for drying and making salsa.
Q: How long can I store dried tomatoes in olive oil?
A: When stored properly in the refrigerator, dried tomatoes can last up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Preserving tomatoes is a wonderful way to extend the flavors of summer into the colder months. Try these methods and enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes year-round. We’d love to hear how your preservation journey goes, so feel free to share your experiences and any variations you try!
