Red cherries and zucchini in broth

Cherry Tomatoes and Zucchini in Broth – A Winter Delicacy

Who doesn’t love the unbeatable flavors of fresh vegetables preserved for winter? This recipe for cherry tomatoes and zucchini in broth is a wonderful way to keep the taste of summer, bringing a splash of freshness to your plates during the cold season. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that will make you feel like a true canning master. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to enjoy healthy, nutrient-rich vegetables even on chilly days.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 10 jars of 500 ml

Ingredients

- 1-2 buckets of regular tomatoes (approximately 3-4 kg)
- 1 bowl of cherry tomatoes (approximately 500 g)
- 4-6 zucchini flowers
- 4 large onions
- 1 celery (approximately 200 g)
- 1 parsnip (approximately 150 g)
- 3 red peppers
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for a spicy taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Celery leaves, for flavor
- 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (optional)

Necessary Utensils

- 500 ml jars, washed and sterilized
- Large pot for boiling
- Food processor or blender
- Wooden spoon
- Jar filling tools
- Jar sealer

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Cherry Tomatoes

Start by washing the cherry tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean and free of impurities. Once washed, drain them well. Carefully place them into the 500 ml jars, leaving a little space at the top.

2. Preparing the Zucchini

Wash the zucchinis and slice them into rounds without peeling. You will blanch them to soften slightly and preserve their texture. Put a large pot of water to boil, add salt, and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes. After they have softened, remove them and let them cool. Place them separately in another jar.

3. Preparing the Broth

In a large pot, add the regular tomatoes, quartered onions, celery, parsnip, and red peppers. Use a food processor or blender to turn all these ingredients into a smooth paste. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Add salt to taste and, if desired, a little sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. It’s important to stir occasionally to avoid burning. Simmer the sauce for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until it thickens and the flavors blend perfectly.

4. Filling the Jars

Once the broth is ready, carefully pour it over the cherry tomatoes and zucchini in the jars. Make sure each jar is filled evenly, leaving a few centimeters of space at the top. Add a few celery leaves to enhance the flavor.

5. Preserving

Seal the jars well and prepare them for boiling. Place them in a large pot, fill with water, and boil them on low heat for about 30 minutes. Ensure the water covers the jars to avoid breaking them. After boiling, remove the jars from the water and let them cool completely.

6. Storing

Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. These preserves will be excellent for use in various dishes throughout the winter.

Practical Tips

- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
- Share creativity: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, adding them to the broth for an even more complex flavor.
- Preserve leftovers: The remaining tomato juice can be kept in small bottles for use in soups or sauces.
- A touch of history: Preserving vegetables is an ancient practice used by generations to ensure that fruits and vegetables remain available year-round. It not only helps reduce food waste but also preserves seasonal flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes add a sweet taste and pleasant texture.

2. Is it necessary to add sugar?
Sugar is optional, but it can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they are very sour.

3. How can I use this broth?
This broth is versatile and can be used as a base for soups, sauces, or even as a side for pasta.

Serving Suggestions

To add a special touch, serve the cherry tomatoes and zucchini with feta cheese and fresh basil. This mix will turn any meal into an unparalleled feast.

Variations

Instead of zucchini, you can use eggplants or carrots to create a unique preserve. Also, for a more intense flavor, you can add garlic or herbs like oregano or thyme.

Remember, each recipe is a story, a memory you build with each ingredient. So enjoy the process and let your creativity shine in every jar you prepare!