Tomatoes in a jar

Canning tomatoes is a tradition that has been passed down through generations, providing an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer throughout the year. These canned tomatoes are ideal for use in soups, sauces, stews, or simply as a side dish. I invite you to discover this simple yet extremely satisfying recipe to enjoy juicy tomatoes when snow covers the ground outside.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Storage time: 24 hours (in jars)
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400ml

Ingredients:
- 4 large, ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 1 clove of garlic
- 5-6 fresh basil leaves
- Salt (optional, for seasoning)

A bit of history
Tomatoes were originally cultivated in South America and arrived in Europe in the 16th century, quickly becoming a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Preserving vegetables was a necessity in the past, and canning techniques have been perfected over time. Today, canning tomatoes is not just a way to avoid food waste, but also a culinary art that allows us to enjoy the flavors of summer on cold winter days.

Preparation
1. Start by washing the tomatoes well under cold running water. Make sure they are clean, as impurities can affect the quality of the preserves.
2. Cut each tomato into quarters. Try to achieve uniform sizes to ensure even preservation.
3. Prepare the jars. Ensure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling the jars and lids for 10 minutes or using a sterilization cycle in the microwave.
4. Place the tomato quarters in the jars, taking care to leave a little space between each quarter. This will allow the juice to distribute evenly in the jar.
5. Garlic works wonders in this recipe. Slice the clove of garlic thinly and add it to the jars among the tomatoes.
6. Add the basil leaves. Their aroma will infuse the tomatoes with a fresh and vibrant flavor. If desired, you can also add a bit of ground black pepper for extra flavor.
7. If you wish, sprinkle a little salt to enhance the flavors, but this step is optional.
8. Fill the jars with boiling water, leaving about 1 cm of headspace at the top. This will allow the liquid to expand during the canning process.
9. Seal the jars with sterilized lids and ensure they are tightly sealed.
10. Place the jars in a large pot of water and boil them for 30 minutes to seal the preserves. Make sure the jars are completely covered with water.
11. Remove the jars from the water and let them cool to room temperature. They will form a vacuum as they cool, ensuring effective preservation.

Practical tips
- Choose high-quality, ripe tomatoes, as they will provide the best results in terms of taste and texture.
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to add different flavors.
- If you prefer a canning method without adding garlic or basil, you can opt for a simple recipe with just tomatoes and salt.

Nutritional benefits
Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C, K, and potassium, making them a healthy ingredient that benefits the immune system and heart health. They also contain antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned tomatoes in recipes that require fresh tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes are excellent in soups, sauces, and stews, providing a rich and deep flavor.
2. How long can I store jars of tomatoes at room temperature?
If sealed correctly, they can be stored at room temperature for a year. After opening, keep them in the refrigerator and consume within 5-7 days.
3. Can I use other types of vegetables in the recipe?
Sure! You can add peppers, zucchini, or onions to create a mixed vegetable preserve.

Serving suggestions
Canned tomatoes can be used as a base for a Serbian soup or a delicious pasta sauce. You can also add tomatoes to salads or on bruschetta, alongside fresh mozzarella and basil.

Variations
Try adding spices like chili pepper or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an even more interesting flavor. You can experiment with various combinations of vegetables, creating custom preserves that suit your tastes.

So now that you have gone through each step of this captivating canned tomato recipe, you are ready to enjoy the taste of summer even on the coldest winter days! Canning tomatoes is not just a simple cooking activity but also a way to bring a touch of sunshine into your life, no matter the season. Don't forget to share the fruits of your labor with loved ones, and canned recipes can easily become cherished gifts!