How to Can Stewed Tomatoes in a Water Bath
I was taught to can stewed tomatoes by my grandmother, who was a farm wife in the Midwest. She would can hundreds of jars of tomatoes each year, and I loved to help her. The smell of the tomatoes cooking in the kitchen always made me feel cozy, and I loved the taste of them on a cold winter day.
Nowadays, I still can stewed tomatoes every year, but I use a water bath canner instead of the old-fashioned method my grandmother used. A water bath canner is a large pot with a lid that has a rack inside to hold the jars. The jars are filled with tomatoes and water, and then they are placed in the canner and boiled for a period of time. This process kills any bacteria that may be present on the tomatoes or in the jars, and it also creates a vacuum seal that keeps the tomatoes fresh for months.
Preparing the Tomatoes
The first step in canning stewed tomatoes is to prepare the tomatoes. You will need to wash the tomatoes thoroughly, remove the stems, and then cut them into quarters or eighths. If you prefer, you can also peel the tomatoes before cutting them, but this is not necessary.
Filling the Jars
Once the tomatoes are prepared, you can start filling the jars. Pack the tomatoes into the jars as tightly as possible, but do not overfill them. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Adding the Water
Once the jars are filled with tomatoes, you need to add water to them. Fill each jar with hot water, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Do not add salt to the water.
Processing the Jars
Once the jars are filled with tomatoes and water, they need to be processed in a water bath canner. Fill the canner with enough water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil, and then place the jars in the canner. Process the jars for the recommended amount of time, depending on the size of the jars.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips for canning stewed tomatoes:
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Do not overfill the jars, or they may not seal properly.
- Process the jars for the recommended amount of time to ensure that they are safe to eat.
- Store the canned tomatoes in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Canning stewed tomatoes is a great way to preserve the summer’s harvest. They are a delicious and versatile food that can be used in a variety of recipes.
FAQs
Q: How long do canned stewed tomatoes last?
A: Canned stewed tomatoes will last for up to one year when stored in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I use canned stewed tomatoes in any recipe that calls for fresh tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use canned stewed tomatoes in any recipe that calls for fresh tomatoes. They will have a slightly different flavor, but they will still be delicious.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my canned stewed tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to your canned stewed tomatoes, such as onions, peppers, or garlic. This will give them a more flavorful taste.
Conclusion
Canning stewed tomatoes is a great way to preserve the summer’s harvest and enjoy them all year long. It is a simple and inexpensive process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. So, if you are looking for a way to enjoy the taste of summer all year long, try canning your own stewed tomatoes.
Are you interested in learning more about canning? If so, there are many resources available online and in libraries.
