Canned Tomatoes Recipe

Canned Tomatoes Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Canning tomatoes has been a popular preservation method for centuries, allowing people to enjoy the delicious flavor of fresh tomatoes throughout the year. The process of canning tomatoes was developed in response to the need to extend the shelf life of this highly perishable fruit. It is believed that the technique of canning tomatoes originated in Europe and was brought to America by early settlers.

Fun Fact: The first known recipe for canning tomatoes was published in the 19th century by noted author and culinary expert, Aunt Sarah. Her recipe has been passed down through generations and is still widely used today.

Ingredients:
- Red tomatoes (ripe early in the season)
- Water
- Sterilized jars with lids and rubber seals

Instructions:
1. Begin by selecting ripe, red tomatoes that are early-season varieties. These tend to be sweeter and more flavorful for canning.
2. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Prepare a pot of scalding water. Pour the scalding water over the tomatoes and let them sit for a few minutes. This will help to loosen the skins.
4. Once the tomatoes have soaked, remove them from the water and carefully peel off the skins. The skins should easily come off at this point.
5. Cut the tomatoes into several pieces, removing any tough cores or blemishes.
6. Place the tomato pieces in a porcelain-lined preserving kettle. This type of kettle is preferred as it prevents any unwanted flavors or reactions with the tomatoes.
7. Cook the tomatoes over medium heat for approximately 25 minutes, or until an orange-colored scum rises to the top. This scum consists of impurities that are naturally present in the tomatoes.
8. While the tomatoes are cooking, prepare the jars for canning. Make sure the jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to ensure the safety of the preserved tomatoes.
9. Once the tomatoes are cooked and the scum has risen to the top, carefully skim off and discard the scum using a ladle or spoon.
10. Fill each sterilized jar with the hot tomatoes, working quickly before they cool down. Leave some headspace at the top of each jar to allow for expansion during the canning process.
11. Place a rubber seal and lid on each jar, ensuring they are tightly secured. This step is crucial to create an airtight seal and prevent spoilage.
12. Once the jars are filled and sealed, allow them to cool completely. It is recommended to let the jars stand for at least a day to ensure they are cold throughout.
13. After cooling, give the jar lids another turn to ensure they are tightly sealed. This step is essential to prevent air from entering the jars and causing spoilage.
14. To further secure the seal, run the dull edge of a knife blade carefully around the top of each jar, pressing down the outer edge to make it fit more closely.
15. Store the jars of canned tomatoes in a dark closet or pantry. When stored properly, these tomatoes should keep indefinitely, allowing you to enjoy their fine flavor year-round.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
Once you have mastered the art of canning tomatoes, you can explore various recipes that incorporate this versatile ingredient. Here are a few popular dishes that feature canned tomatoes:

1. Spaghetti Bolognese: A classic Italian dish that combines ground meat, onions, garlic, herbs, and canned tomatoes to create a rich and flavorful sauce for pasta.
2. Tomato Soup: A comforting and hearty soup made with canned tomatoes, onions, broth, and seasonings. Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
3. Shakshuka: A Middle Eastern dish consisting of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce made with canned tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices. It is typically served with crusty bread for dipping.
4. Tomato Salsa: A refreshing and tangy condiment made with diced canned tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, lime juice, and cilantro. Perfect for dipping tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos.
5. Tomato Sauce: A versatile sauce that forms the base for countless pasta dishes, soups, and stews. Use canned tomatoes as the main ingredient, along with garlic, onions, herbs, and spices.

Exploring these recipes will help you discover new and exciting ways to enjoy the delicious flavor of canned tomatoes throughout the year. Happy cooking and preserving!