Homemade tomato broth

Homemade Tomato Broth – The Perfect Recipe for a Summer Full of Flavors

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: Variable amount, depending on tomatoes

Introduction

There is nothing more delicious than having homemade tomato broth on hand, transporting you to warm summer days when tomatoes are in full bloom and their aroma is unmatched. This simple and natural recipe is perfect for preserving the taste of fresh tomatoes and rediscovering it in every season. Whether you use it to enrich soups, sauces, or even to add flavor to your dishes, tomato broth is an essential ingredient in any kitchen.

Ingredients

- Ripe tomatoes (amount of your choice, but recommended between 2 and 5 kg for a substantial batch)
- Optional: a few fresh basil leaves for aromatic flavor

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to choose quality, ripe tomatoes to achieve a broth with an intense flavor. A well-ripened tomato is the key to success! Cut the tomatoes into thick slices, which will help with the cooking process.

2. Boiling the tomatoes
Place the tomato slices in a large pot and set it over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent the tomatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This is when the aroma of the tomatoes will begin to release, flooding the kitchen with an irresistible scent.

3. Crushing the tomatoes
After about 30 minutes of boiling, the tomatoes will break down and turn into a paste. Use a tomato press to separate the juice from the skins and seeds. Be careful, as the mixture is hot! This step is essential for achieving a smooth texture and quality broth.

4. Reducing the juice
Put the juice back on the stove and let it boil. It will thicken slightly during this process. This is the time to add fresh basil leaves for extra flavor, although the original recipe does not include them.

5. Bottling the broth
Once the juice has thickened, prepare sterilized glass bottles. Fill them with the hot broth, then seal them tightly with screw caps. It is important that the bottles are sealed correctly to prevent air from entering.

6. Cooling the broth
Place the bottles in a box lined with blankets, covering them well. Let them cool slowly in this warm "bed." This method helps create a vacuum inside the bottle, preserving the broth without the need for preservatives.

7. Storing the broth
After the bottles have completely cooled, place them in the pantry. You will notice that the tomato broth retains the fresh flavor of tomatoes for several months, ready to be used in various recipes.

Practical Tips

- Choosing tomatoes: As a general rule, the riper the tomatoes, the better the broth will be. Roma or San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended for broth due to their low water content and natural sweetness.
- Washing the bottles: Ensure that the bottles are completely sterile to prevent contamination of the broth. You can boil them in water for 10 minutes or wash them in the dishwasher at high temperatures.
- Adding seasonings: Although the classic recipe does not include salt or oil, you can experiment by adding seasonings like oregano or herbs de Provence to customize the broth.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomato broth is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Additionally, tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While it is possible, the broth made from fresh tomatoes will have a much more intense and pleasant flavor.

- How can I use tomato broth in recipes?
You can add the broth to soups, pasta sauces, stews, or even as a base for pizza.

- How long can the broth be stored?
If stored properly, tomato broth can last up to 1 year. Ensure there are no signs of spoilage or fermentation.

Possible Variations

- Tomato broth with peppers: Add a few bell peppers during boiling for a sweet flavor and a splash of color.
- Spicy tomato broth: Include a few finely chopped hot peppers during the boiling process for a spicy kick.

Serving

To enjoy the tomato broth even more, you can serve it with crunchy croutons or a spoonful of sour cream on top. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine pairs wonderfully with dishes cooked with this broth.

Do you want to create unforgettable culinary memories? This homemade tomato broth recipe will not only enrich your meals but will also add a touch of nostalgia and comfort to every table. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a cooking process full of flavors and satisfaction!