Tomatoes in broth without preservatives

Tomatoes in broth without preservatives - Summer recipe for winter

Who doesn't love the intense flavors of fresh tomatoes? This recipe for tomatoes in broth without preservatives is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to preserve summer in jars. Using only ripe tomatoes, salt, and sugar, you can enjoy the authentic taste of garden tomatoes all year round.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 12 kg of ripe tomatoes (preferably garden, large and juicy)
- 12 teaspoons of salt (coarse salt for better taste)
- 12 teaspoons of sugar (helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Spices to taste (basil, oregano, pepper, etc. - optional)

The story behind the recipe

Tomatoes in broth are a tradition in many households, an efficient way to preserve fresh tomatoes for winter. This process not only retains the flavor and nutrients but also gives you the opportunity to add a personal touch by choosing your favorite spices. Moreover, there is nothing more satisfying than opening a jar of homemade tomatoes in the middle of winter and enjoying the taste of summer.

Step by step

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes well under a stream of cold water. Choose ripe but firm tomatoes for the best results. Score them lightly at the top with a sharp knife. This will make peeling easier later.

2. Blanching: Boil water in a large pot. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the tomatoes one by one, leaving them in the water for 1-2 minutes. Check them constantly, as we only want to use the heat to loosen the skins.

3. Peeling: After blanching, remove the tomatoes from the water and let them cool slightly. The skins should come off easily. If you have smaller tomatoes, you can leave them whole; for larger ones, cut them into suitable pieces.

4. Cooking the tomatoes: Place the peeled tomatoes in a large pot over low heat. If you have a cast-iron plate or a thicker sheet, place it under the pot to prevent burning. Let them simmer until they start releasing their juice, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Seasoning: Add the salt, sugar, and desired spices. Cook the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes should become softer and have a thicker consistency.

6. Preparing the jars: While the tomatoes are cooking, prepare the jars. Wash them well and dry them. Place a kitchen towel inside a large pot and fill the pot with water. Place the jars in the water over low heat and let them warm up.

7. Filling the jars: Use a ladle to fill each jar with tomatoes and juice. Fill them well, but leave about 1 cm of space at the top. Cover each jar with a clean, dry lid, tightening it well.

8. Sterilizing: Carefully transport the filled jars to the sterilization area (it can be in a warm place or a cushion nest). Leave them there to sterilize until the next day.

Practical tips

- Choosing tomatoes: Garden tomatoes are the best, but if you don't have access, look for high-quality tomatoes at the market or supermarket.
- Spices: Have fun with flavors! Add fresh basil, oregano, or even a bit of chili pepper if you like spicy dishes.
- Checking the jars: Ensure each jar is airtight. You can check this by pressing the lid; if it doesn't return to its original position, the jar is sealed correctly.

Delicious combinations

These tomatoes in broth pair perfectly with winter dishes such as meat stew, pasta sauces, or pizza. You can even use them as a base for soups or broths, bringing a special flavor to your dishes.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned tomatoes? It is not recommended, as fresh tomatoes have a much better texture and flavor for this recipe.
- What should I do if I don't have time to sterilize the jars? If you want a quicker option, you can keep them in the fridge, but they will have a shorter shelf life.
- How long do they last? If properly sterilized, tomatoes in broth can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, making them excellent for cardiovascular and skin health. A serving of 100g of tomatoes in broth has about 18 calories, making them an ideal ingredient for healthy and light recipes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Enjoy this process, savor the flavors, and don't forget to leave your personal touch in each jar. In winter, when you open a jar of tomatoes made with love, you will truly feel the taste of summer.