Cherry tomatoes in a jar

Cherry Tomatoes in a Jar - A Dive into Summer's Flavor

Preparing cherry tomatoes in a jar is a culinary tradition that evokes memories of warm summer days when tomatoes are bursting with aroma and flavor. In this recipe, we will learn how to preserve the best of these delicious vegetables so we can enjoy them year-round. Cooking is an art, and preservation is a form of magic that allows us to relish nature's bounty even on cold winter days.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Sterilization time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 1 jar of 800g

Necessary ingredients:
- 800g cherry tomatoes (choose the freshest and juiciest ones)
- 1 teaspoon coarse canning salt (salt is essential for preservation)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps balance acidity)
- Water (enough to fill the jar)

The History of Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes have a long and fascinating history, being a traditional method used by generations to preserve the taste of summer. This practice has evolved over time, with each culture adapting it to its culinary style. Today, preserving tomatoes is an excellent way to enjoy the natural flavors of vegetables even when their season has ended.

Preparing Cherry Tomatoes in a Jar

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by selecting the best cherry tomatoes. Look for firm, vibrant red fruits without blemishes. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water and dry them with a towel. It is important that the tomatoes are fresh to ensure quality preservation.

Step 2: Prepare the jar
Ensure that the 800g jar is clean and sterilized. You can do this by washing it in hot water or using a sterilization cycle in the dishwasher. It is also advisable to boil the jar lid.

Step 3: Fill the jar
Fill the jar with cherry tomatoes, leaving a small space of about 1 cm at the top. This will allow for liquid expansion during sterilization.

Step 4: Add salt and sugar
Sprinkle a teaspoon of coarse canning salt and a teaspoon of sugar over the tomatoes. The salt helps preserve the vegetables, while the sugar balances the acidity, providing a pleasant taste.

Step 5: Add water
Fill the jar with water, making sure to completely cover the tomatoes. Ensure there are no air bubbles inside; if necessary, use a spatula to remove them.

Step 6: Sterilize the jar
Cover the jar with the sterilized lid and place it in a large pot of water. Make sure the water completely covers the jar. Let the water boil for 30 minutes. To protect the jar, it is recommended to wrap a cloth or use newspapers to avoid direct contact with the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Cool the jar
After the sterilization time has expired, carefully remove the jar from the water using gloves, as it will be hot. Place it on a clean towel at room temperature and allow it to cool completely.

Step 8: Storage
Once the jar has cooled completely, label it with the date and contents, then store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. These preserved cherry tomatoes will be ready to be enjoyed in salads, soups, or various dishes.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add herbs like basil or oregano to give the tomatoes a different twist.
- Ensure that all utensils used are completely clean and sterilized to avoid contamination.
- If the jars do not seal properly (when the lid does not "click"), repeat the sterilization process to ensure proper preservation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their size and concentrated flavor.

2. How long can I keep the jars of tomatoes?
If stored correctly, canned tomatoes can be consumed for up to a year.

3. How can I use the preserved tomatoes?
Canned cherry tomatoes are perfect for salads, sauces, soups, or as a garnish for various dishes.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them excellent for the immune system and skin health. A 100g serving of cherry tomatoes contains approximately 18 calories, making them an ideal ingredient for a healthy diet.

Possible variations:
Why not try a version with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a more intense flavor? Or add a few slices of garlic for an extra kick. Each experiment can transform this simple recipe into a culinary gem.

In conclusion, preserving cherry tomatoes in a jar is a simple and satisfying way to keep the taste of summer for the colder seasons. With just a few basic ingredients and an easy-to-follow technique, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of tomatoes in many dishes. Don't hesitate to explore and customize the recipe to suit your tastes!