Tomato juice for winter

Tomato Juice Recipe for Winter: A Home Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 15 bottles of 500 ml

Introduction

Tomato juice is an essential base in many households' kitchens, boasting a rich flavor and versatility in culinary preparations. This traditional winter tomato juice recipe will teach you how to make a delicious juice that will remind you of sunny summer days even in the coldest winter. Making tomato juice at home will not only provide you with a fresh product but also allow you to control the ingredients, eliminating preservatives and additives found in commercial juices.

Additionally, this recipe is simple and accessible, with truly satisfying results. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

- 20 kg ripe, healthy tomatoes (ideally, choose garden or market tomatoes with high water content and flavor)
- 6 tablespoons coarse salt (salt helps preserve the juice and enhances the flavor)
- 6 tablespoons sugar (helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Oil (approximately one tablespoon for each bottle of juice)
- Sterilized bottles (for storage)

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the Tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and slice them. It is important to choose well-ripened tomatoes, as these will influence the final flavor of the juice.

2. Pressing the Tomatoes
After slicing the tomatoes, pass them through a tomato press. This process will extract the juice and pulp from the tomatoes. For a finer juice, you can press the tomatoes twice to ensure you get all the juice.

3. Boiling the Juice
Place the extracted juice in a cast iron pot or a large pot over low heat. Simmer the juice for about 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. It is important that the boiling is slow to concentrate the flavors and reduce the juice by half.

4. Seasoning
Halfway through the boiling time, add the salt and sugar. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the juice. Mix well to ensure the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.

5. Bottling
Once the juice has thickened and concentrated, prepare the sterilized bottles. Fill each bottle with hot juice, leaving a little space at the top. Add a tablespoon of oil to each bottle. The oil will help seal the juice and prevent oxidation.

6. Sealing and Cooling
Seal the bottles with their caps and place them under a blanket. This step will help retain heat and create a vacuum, keeping the juice fresh for a longer time. Allow the bottles to cool completely until the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade tomato juice is ideal for use as a base in various dishes. You can add the juice to soups, sauces, stews, or even cocktails like Bloody Mary. It can also be enjoyed on its own, with a splash of lemon and some spices for a refreshing drink.

Variations and Practical Tips

- Flavor Variations: You can add spices like basil, oregano, or chili peppers to the tomato juice for a unique and personalized taste.
- Nutritional Benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which have multiple health benefits, including protection against cardiovascular diseases.
- Calories: This recipe is low in calories, containing approximately 30-40 calories per serving (500 ml), depending on the amount of sugar used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tomatoes?
While it is recommended to use fresh tomatoes, you can use frozen tomatoes. Make sure to fully thaw them and drain any excess water before pressing.

2. How can I check if the juice is well preserved?
After the bottles have completely cooled, check if the caps are well sealed. If, when you press down on the cap, it does not return to its original position, the juice is well preserved.

3. How long can tomato juice be stored?
If kept in a cool, dark place, tomato juice can be stored for up to 1 year. Make sure there are no signs of fermentation or unpleasant odors.

Conclusion

Making tomato juice at home is a pleasant and comforting activity that will fill your pantry with delicious flavors to enjoy throughout the winter. This simple and effective recipe not only provides you with a quality product but also offers the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Try this recipe and enjoy the authentic taste of fresh tomatoes, even on the coldest days!