Cherry tomatoes in a jar

Indulge your taste buds year-round with an easy-to-make delicacy: canned cherry tomatoes! Every summer, our gardens transform into a true vegetable paradise, and cherry tomatoes are undoubtedly the stars of the season. These little red wonders are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, and preserving them will bring you the taste of summer even on the coldest winter days. It’s a simple recipe that will impress any guest.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 jars of 500 ml

Ingredients:
- 1 kg cherry tomatoes (choose the most beautiful and ripe ones)
- 4 tablespoons of salt (preferably sea salt or non-iodized salt)
- Filtered water (enough to fill the jars)

A brief history:
Canning vegetables is an ancient practice used for generations to preserve their taste and nutrients. This method not only extends the shelf life of vegetables but also adds unique textures and flavors to your dishes. Cherry tomatoes, with their sweetness and juiciness, become even more interesting after being preserved, adding a touch of freshness to any meal.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the tomatoes:
Start by thoroughly washing the cherry tomatoes. It’s essential to remove any impurities, so rinsing them under cold running water will work wonders. Choose firm, unblemished tomatoes, as they will preserve better.

2. Preparing the jars:
Use clean, sterilized jars. You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher on high temperatures. Ensure that the lids are also clean.

3. Filling the jars:
Place the cherry tomatoes in the jars, taking care to pack them as tightly as possible. They shouldn’t be overly crowded, but they should remain snug to avoid air pockets.

4. Adding the salt:
Add one tablespoon of salt to each jar. The salt will not only help preserve the tomatoes but also enhance their flavor. You can experiment with different types of salt, such as sea salt or herb-infused salt, for a special taste.

5. Filling with water:
Fill the jars with filtered water, leaving a small air gap at the top. This will allow for liquid expansion during the boiling process.

6. Boiling:
Place the jars in a large pot and fill it with water up to halfway up the jars. Put the pot over medium heat and bring the water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, let the jars boil for 30 minutes. This process will seal the jars and help preserve the delicate flavors of the tomatoes.

7. Cooling:
After the boiling time is up, turn off the heat and let the jars cool in the water until the next day. This slow cooling method helps create a vacuum, which is essential for keeping the tomatoes in optimal condition.

8. Storing:
Once the jars have completely cooled, carefully remove them from the water and dry them. Store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. Canned cherry tomatoes can be kept for up to a year, giving you the chance to enjoy the taste of summer at any time.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can include a few sprigs of fresh basil or some peeled garlic cloves in each jar.
- Make sure the tomatoes are ripe but firm to avoid damage during the preservation process.
- When you open a jar, you can add the tomatoes to salads, pasta, or even as a garnish for meat dishes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes have the advantage of being sweeter and juicier, making them ideal for canning.

- How much salt should I add?
One tablespoon of salt per jar is sufficient, but you can adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

- Do I need to pasteurize the jars?
Yes, the boiling process is essential for sealing the jars and preventing bacterial growth.

Delicious combinations:
These canned cherry tomatoes are perfect for adding to salads, pasta, pizza, or even as an appetizer alongside fine cheeses. You can try serving them with a bottle of crisp white wine, and for a complete culinary experience, pair them with garlic and basil bruschetta.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, which contribute to skin health and the immune system. They also contain lycopene, a compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In conclusion, preparing canned cherry tomatoes is an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer and add a splash of color and flavor to your dishes throughout the year. Try this simple recipe and enjoy delicious cherry tomatoes, even on chilly winter days. With every jar opened, you’ll feel the warmth of the summer sun and relish the fruits of your gardening labor!