Broth

Delicious Tomato Broth Recipe: A Treasure of Flavor for Winter

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 7 liters of broth
Difficulty: Easy

Introduction

Tomato broth is a fundamental base in the kitchens of many families, used in soups, sauces, and various dishes. This simple and delicious recipe will bring the flavor of summer even on the coldest winter days! Juicy, fresh, and ripe tomatoes are the key to success, and with a few simple ingredients, you will achieve an exceptionally tasty broth. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare this delicious broth, full of flavor and authentic aromas.

Necessary ingredients

- 5 kg large, juicy, ripe tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for a more complex taste)
- 1 bunch of celery leaves
- 1 tablespoon of salt (for 7 liters of juice)
- Oregano and basil (to taste, for added flavor)
- Whole pepper (10-15 grains)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (to enhance the aroma)

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean, as they are the main ingredient. Cut the tomatoes into quarters to make them easier to process.

2. Obtaining the tomato juice
Use a broth maker or a blender to puree the tomatoes. Pass them through the machine twice to obtain a fine and homogeneous juice. This process will help remove seeds and skins, resulting in a smooth broth.

3. Boiling the broth
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and pour in the obtained tomato juice. Add the salt, diced bell pepper, celery leaves, oregano, basil, whole pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well and place the pot on low heat. Let it simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally. It is important not to raise the temperature to avoid burning the juice, and the foam that forms on top should be removed with a spatula or spoon.

4. Checking the broth
After an hour of boiling, check the broth. When no more foam rises, it is ready. Its texture should be smooth and have a vibrant color.

5. Sterilizing the bottles
To preserve the broth, it is essential to use clean bottles. Wash them well, then place them in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes for sterilization. Also, boil the lids for 30 minutes to ensure a perfect seal.

6. Filling the bottles
Once the broth is ready, carefully pour it into the hot bottles. Be careful, as both the broth and the bottles are extremely hot. Fill each bottle almost to the top, leaving a little room for expansion.

7. Cooling the broth
Place the bottles in a basket and wrap them with blankets or towels to cool gradually. This technique helps preserve the flavors and prevents the bottles from breaking. Once they have completely cooled, you will notice a clear liquid on top of the broth, indicating that everything is fine.

8. Storing the broth
Store the broth in a cool, dark place. It will remain tasty until next summer, making it ideal for culinary preparations.

Nutrition and benefits

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, with a high content of antioxidants such as lycopene, which contributes to heart health and reduces the risk of certain types of cancer. Additionally, tomato broth is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Serving suggestions and combinations

This tomato broth can be used as a base for soups, pasta sauces, or even for preparing baked dishes. You can combine it with fresh pasta, rice, or grilled vegetables. It also pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a slice of garlic toast.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned tomatoes?
If you do not have access to fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes can be an alternative, but the taste will be different.

- What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or dill, to customize the flavor of the broth.

- How can I preserve the broth for a longer time?
Make sure the bottles are completely sterilized and that the broth is sealed correctly to prevent any contamination.

This tomato broth recipe is not just a method of preserving tomatoes, but also a way to bring a touch of summer to your winter meals. I wish you great success in preparing the broth and hope you enjoy the final result! Bon appétit!