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October 16, 2024
Canning whole tomatoes is a great way to preserve the freshness of the summer harvest and enjoy their taste all year round.
While many canning recipes recommend using a pressure cooker, it is possible to can whole tomatoes without one. This method is safe and effective if you follow proper canning techniques and use the right equipment.
In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to can whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker.
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary canning supplies, including mason jars, lids, a large canning pot, a jar lifter, and a canning funnel. It’s also important to choose ripe and blemish-free tomatoes for the best results.
Canning Whole Tomatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Canning whole tomatoes is a great way to preserve the flavor and freshness of summer tomatoes for use throughout the year. While pressure cookers are often used for canning tomatoes, it is possible to can them without one. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to can whole tomatoes using a water bath canner.
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
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Before you begin the canning process, gather all the necessary equipment. This includes a water bath canner, canning jars with lids and bands, a jar lifter, a wide-mouth funnel, a bubble remover, and a non-metallic spatula.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under running water. Remove any bruised or damaged spots, and core them using a paring knife. If desired, you can also peel the tomatoes by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transferring them to an ice bath.
Step 3: Pack the Jars
Fill the jars with whole tomatoes, leaving a 1/2 inch headspace at the top. Using the non-metallic spatula, remove any air bubbles by gently pressing the tomatoes down and then adding more tomatoes if necessary. Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp cloth to ensure a clean seal.
Step 4: Process the Jars
Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip tight. Place the jars in the water bath canner, making sure they are fully submerged. Bring the water to a gentle boil and process for 40 minutes for pint-sized jars and 45 minutes for quart-sized jars.
Step 5: Remove and Cool the Jars
Using the jar lifter, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours. During this time, you may hear the lids make a popping sound, indicating a successful seal.
Step 6: Check the Seals and Store
After the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing on the center of the lids. If the lids are firm and do not pop back, the jars are sealed properly. Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes all year round. Happy canning!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Whole tomatoes | 1. Wash tomatoes thoroughly. |
| 2. Remove any bruised or damaged spots. | |
| 3. Core tomatoes using a paring knife. | |
| 4. Optional: Peel tomatoes by blanching and transferring to an ice bath. |
Preparing Tomatoes for Canning
Before canning whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker, it is important to properly prepare the tomatoes to ensure safe and flavorful preservation. Follow these steps to prepare your tomatoes for canning:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cool running water, rubbing off any dirt or debris with your fingers. |
| 2 | Remove the stems and any blemishes by using a paring knife or tomato corer. |
| 3 | Blanch the tomatoes by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. |
| 4 | Using a slotted spoon, carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30-60 seconds or until the skins start to peel away. |
| 5 | Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. |
| 6 | Once the tomatoes have cooled, gently peel off the skins starting from the area where the skin has already started to peel. |
| 7 | Core the tomatoes, removing the hardened stem area from the top. |
| 8 | Cut the tomatoes into desired sizes or leave them whole, depending on your preference for canning. |
| 9 | For added acidity, it is recommended to add lemon juice or citric acid to each jar before filling with tomatoes. Refer to the canning recipe for specific amounts. |
Once your tomatoes are prepared, they are ready to be canned using a boiling water canner or a water bath canner method. Follow the appropriate canning recipe for further instructions on processing times and additional ingredients that may be required.
Sterilizing the Jars and Lids
Before you can begin canning whole tomatoes, it’s important to sterilize the jars and lids to ensure they are clean and free from any bacteria or contaminants. Here’s how you can sterilize the jars and lids:
- Wash the jars and lids with hot, soapy water.
- Rinse the jars and lids thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Place the jars in a large pot and fill it with enough water to completely submerge the jars.
- Bring the water to a boil and let the jars boil for 10 minutes to sterilize them.
- In a separate pot, place the lids and bring the water to a boil. Let the lids boil for 5 minutes.
- Once the jars and lids have finished boiling, carefully remove them from the water using tongs and place them on a clean towel to dry.
It is important to handle the sterilized jars and lids with clean hands or utensils to avoid any contamination. Make sure to use the sterilized jars and lids immediately for canning your tomatoes.
Making the Tomato Sauce
Once the tomatoes are peeled and cored, it’s time to make the tomato sauce. Here’s how:
- Chop the tomatoes into small pieces. You can use a knife or a food processor for this.
- Place the chopped tomatoes into a large pot.
- Add any desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic, or herbs like basil or oregano.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and simmer the tomatoes for about 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Use a wooden spoon or an immersion blender to break down the tomatoes and create a smoother sauce consistency.
- If desired, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Continue simmering the sauce for another 30 minutes to an hour, or until it has reached your desired thickness.
Once the tomato sauce is ready, you can either use it immediately in recipes or can it for future use. Follow the proper canning procedures to ensure the sauce stays fresh and safe to eat.
Filling and Sealing the Jars
Once you have prepared your tomatoes and sterilized your jars, it’s time to start filling and sealing them.
1. Place a funnel over the mouth of a jar to help guide the tomatoes in.
2. Using a ladle or a measuring cup, carefully pour the hot tomato mixture into the jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
3. Use a rubber spatula or a butter knife to remove any air bubbles from the jar by pressing it against the side of the jar and stirring the contents slightly.
4. Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any tomato residue. It is important to have a clean rim to ensure a proper seal.
5. Place a sterilized lid onto the jar, making sure the sealing compound is facing down towards the tomatoes.
6. Screw on the metal band until it is fingertip tight. Do not over-tighten as this can prevent a proper seal from forming.
7. Repeat this process with the remaining jars until all the tomatoes have been filled and sealed.
Storing and Using Canned Tomatoes
Once you have filled and sealed all the jars, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. You may hear a “popping” sound as the jars cool, which indicates a proper seal has been achieved.
Store the jars in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cellar. Canned tomatoes will last for up to 1 year if stored properly.
To use the canned tomatoes, simply open the jar and drain off any liquid if desired. The tomatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, such as soups, sauces, or stews.
Processing the Jars in a Water Bath
Once the jars are filled with whole tomatoes and their lids are secure, it is time to process them in a water bath. The water bath method is a simple and effective way to safely preserve canned goods without the use of a pressure cooker.
- Place a rack or heat-resistant barrier at the bottom of a large pot to prevent direct contact between the jars and the pot.
- Place the filled jars on the rack, making sure they are not touching each other or the sides of the pot.
- Add enough water to the pot to completely cover the jars with at least 1 inch of water. The water level should be measured from the top of the jars.
- Turn on the heat and bring the water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a steady simmer.
- Set a timer for the allotted processing time, which is typically around 45 minutes to 1 hour. The processing time may vary depending on the size and altitude of your location, so it’s important to refer to a trusted canning recipe for specific guidelines.
- Monitor the water level during the processing time and add more boiling water if necessary to ensure the jars remain covered.
- After the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the pot using jar lifters or tongs.
- Place the jars on a clean towel or cooling rack, leaving at least 1 inch of space between each jar. Allow them to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
- Check the seals on the lids by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not move or make a popping sound, it is properly sealed. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a few days.
- Label the sealed jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
By following these steps and using a water bath canning method, you can safely preserve whole tomatoes without the need for a pressure cooker. Enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes all year round!
Q&A
What are the benefits of canning whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker?
Canning whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker allows you to preserve fresh tomatoes for a longer period of time. It also helps to retain the flavor and nutrients of the tomatoes.
Can I use any type of tomatoes for canning?
Yes, you can use any type of tomatoes for canning. However, it is recommended to use ripe, firm tomatoes with a good flavor for the best results.
What equipment do I need to can whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker?
To can whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker, you will need a large pot, canning jars with lids, a canning rack, a jar lifter, a ladle, and a timer.
What is the process of canning whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker?
The process of canning whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker involves washing and sterilizing the jars, preparing the tomatoes by removing the skins and cores, packing the tomatoes into the jars, adding any desired seasonings or liquids, sealing the jars, and processing them in a hot water bath for a specific amount of time.
How long can I store canned whole tomatoes without a pressure cooker?
When properly processed and stored, canned whole tomatoes can be stored for up to 1 year. It is important to store them in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.
What is the purpose of canning whole tomatoes?
Canning whole tomatoes allows you to preserve them for a longer period of time without losing their quality. It also makes them readily available for use in various recipes throughout the year.
Do I need a pressure cooker to can whole tomatoes?
No, you don’t necessarily need a pressure cooker to can whole tomatoes. There are alternative methods that can be used, such as the water bath canning method, which can also effectively preserve the tomatoes.