Ingredients
Tomatoes, canning salt, fresh lemon juice, and a water bath canner are the essential pieces of equipment needed when canning tomatoes. When selecting tomatoes, choose fruits that are ripe, yet still firm and unblemished. The amount of tomatoes required depends on the size of the jars used and the recipe. For canning time, you will need to account for potato preparation, jar sterilization, and actual canning time.
What to do Ahead of Time
Before beginning the canning process, it is important to plan ahead and gain a basic understanding of the process. To be well-prepared, it is important to learn the components of a properly-sealed jar of canned tomatoes. This includes the amount of produce, the size of the jar, the amount of salt and lemon juice, and the specific canning technique.
Next, it is essential to gather all necessary canning equipment. This includes a boiling water bath canner (or pressure canner if you are selecting one of that variety of recipes), jars, and lids. You are also going to need common kitchen tools such as a slotted spoon, a wide-mouth funnel, a jar lifter, and a timer.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to read the recipe instructions before beginning and prepare the produce, and review safety tips and advice for canning. Most recipes for canning tomatoes will call for a boil or blanching to start, in which case you will need to have a separate pot with a boiling water bath as well. This step is typically done to prepare the tomatoes for packing in the jars.
Preparing the Jars
Once you have all the ingredients on hand and have read the recipe directions, you can begin prepping the jars for canning. The first step is to sterilize the jars, lids and bands. This can be done in boiling water or in the dishwasher. It is important to ensure all of the pieces are completely clean to ensure complete sterilization.
The size of the jar should also be considered. Some recipes will call for quart jars, half pint, or pint jars. If using quart jars, you can expect to can 8 to 12 jars per batch, depending on the size of the tomatoes. For smaller produce, such as grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, you can expect to can 4 to 8 jars per batch depending on the size of the tomatoes.
Packing the Tomatoes
With the jars prepared, you can begin packing the tomatoes into the prepared jars. The tomatoes are typically packed in the jars tightly with a little headspace. The amount of headspace will depend on the recipe you are using.
Before closing the jars to can them, it is important to add the recommended amount of lemon juice, sugar, and salt. This helps enhance the flavor of the tomatoes during the canning process and prevents bacterial growth. Once all the desired ingredients are added, the jars can then be closed.
Canning the Tomatoes
Once the jars are sealed, it is time to actually can the tomatoes. The process for canning tomatoes will vary depending on the recipe, however the basics are similar. Place the filled jars into a boiling water bath canner. This will usually be done one jar at a time, but depending on the size, the canner can fit more than one. Ensure that all of the jars are securely in place.
Then bring the water in the canner to a rolling boil. The boiling water should completely cover the jars. Depending on the size of the jars, the length of time the tomatoes are boiled for in the canning bath will vary. A general rule of thumb for canning tomatoes in a quart jar is 40 minutes and 20 minutes for a pint jar.
Cooling the Jars
Once the canning time is complete, it is now time to remove the jars from the canner. This should be done slowly with a jar lifter to prevent the jars from breaking. Allow the jars to cool for 12-24 hours on a dry surface at room temperature.
After the jars have cooled, it is important to check for a good seal. To test for a proper seal, press the middle of the lid. If the lid springs back, the jar is not sealed. If it does not, the jar is properly sealed and is now ready for storage.
Storing the Jars
Once the jars have cooled and been tested for a good seal, the cans are now ready for storage. If possible, store the canned tomatoes in a cool, dry place. This will ensure that the tomatoes retain their freshness longer, as well as prevent any spoilage. It is also important to check the jars for leakage and/or spoilage every so often.
Canning Other Foods
Canning tomatoes is just the start for mastering the art of canning. Once the technique is perfected, home canners can begin to explore other recipes, such as salsas, jams, jellies, vegetables, meats, and other fruits. Canned recipes can be enjoyed for up to one year if stored properly.
Tips for Canning Tomatoes
To ensure that your canned tomatoes turn out great, consider these tips before beginning the home canning process. First, be sure to look for a reliable recipe from a trusted source. Additionally, it is important to always consider safety first – wear the proper clothing and apparel and read any safety instructions.
When selecting tomatoes, aim for produce that is evenly colored and avoid tomatoes that are soft, wrinkled, or damaged. As for packing the tomatoes into jars, ensure the filling covers the lid completely and there is no air left in the jar. Also, make sure to use the correct amount of salt and lemon juice as it helps enhance the flavor and prevent spoilage.
Canning Overview
At a glance, home canning tomatoes can seem like a daunting task, however with a bit of know-how and a few common kitchen tools, it is a fairly simple process that can be done in just a few hours.
Before beginning, review the canning basics and become familiar with the process and safety guidelines. For a successful canning experience, make sure to select sturdy and undamaged produce, sterilize equipment, select the proper canning techniques, and store the jars properly for optimal experience.
In addition to canning tomatoes, home canners can explore other recipes such as veggies, fruits, jams, jellies, and even meats. With a bit of patience and the proper research, you can create beautiful jars of canned tomatoes to get you through the cold winter days.
