Ever found yourself with an abundance of tomatoes during the summer, wishing you could enjoy their fresh flavor all year round? Look no further! This quick and easy preservation method will keep your tomatoes fresh and delicious, ready to use whenever you need them. Whether for soups, sauces, or salads, these preserved tomatoes will bring a burst of summer into your winter dishes. I wish I had discovered this earlier – it’s truly a game-changer!
Ingredients:
- Fresh tomatoes (2.5 kg)
- Airtight glass jars
- 2 liters of water
- 4-5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Directions:
- Gather and Prepare Tomatoes:
- Select fresh, ripe tomatoes. Wash them thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes.
- Sterilize Jars:
- Sterilize the airtight glass jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Let them air dry on a clean towel.
- Pack Tomatoes into Jars:
- Pack the tomatoes tightly into the sterilized jars. Add the finely chopped garlic to each jar, distributing it evenly.
- Boil Water and Prepare Jars:
- Bring 2 liters of water to a rolling boil. Carefully pour the boiling water over the tomatoes in the jars, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the jars loosely and let them sit for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Brine:
- In a separate pot, combine the vinegar, salt, and sugar. Stir until dissolved and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Drain Water and Add Brine:
- Carefully drain the water from the jars, leaving the tomatoes inside. Pour the hot brine over the tomatoes, filling the jars completely.
- Seal and Cool Jars:
- Seal the jars tightly with their lids. Wrap the sealed jars in a thick blanket to cool slowly, ensuring a proper seal forms. Allow the jars to cool completely.
- Store and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. Your preserved tomatoes will be ready to enjoy throughout the winter.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooling Time: Several hours | Total Time: 3-4 hours | Servings: Varies based on jar size
Enjoy the vibrant taste of summer tomatoes all year round with this simple preservation method. It’s a must-try for anyone with an overabundance of tomatoes