How to make tomato juice

Tomato juice is one of those summer delights that evokes memories of sunny days and the authentic flavors of fresh vegetables. Making this juice is not just a culinary necessity for sauces, but also a satisfying activity that combines tradition with a love for cooking. In this recipe, I will share with you the necessary steps to create a rich, flavorful, and nutrient-packed tomato juice, perfect for enjoying in both warm dishes and salads or soups.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 20 servings (approximately 20 liters of juice)

Ingredients
- 20 kg of plum tomatoes (these are meatier and ideal for tomato juice)
- 5-6 tablespoons of sugar (helps balance acidity)
- 5-6 tablespoons of salt (for preservation and taste)
- Optional spices: basil, oregano, thyme, pepper, garlic (for flavoring)

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the tomatoes:
Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes without imperfections. The vibrant color and intense aroma are essential for quality tomato juice. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities.

2. Separating the pulp:
Use a juice separator or a juicer to extract the juice from the tomatoes. This step is crucial as we want to achieve a fine, juicy pulp without seeds and skin. If you don’t have a separator, you can cut the tomatoes into pieces and blend them, then strain the mixture through a fine sieve.

3. Boiling the juice:
Place the extracted pulp in a large pot over high heat to maintain the vibrant color of the tomatoes. Add a little lemon juice if you want to enhance the acidity. Allow it to boil, stirring occasionally, until the volume has reduced by about 1/4.

4. Seasoning:
Once the juice has reduced, add the salt and sugar. These ingredients are essential for preservation and to enhance the flavor of the juice. Let it boil for a few more minutes to thoroughly integrate the seasonings.

5. Flavoring (optional):
To your taste, you can add basil, oregano, thyme, or garlic. Each spice will give the juice a unique note tailored to your preferences. If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the juice simmer longer after adding the spices.

6. Bottling:
Once the juice is ready, pour it into sterilized bottles or jars while it is still hot. Make sure to leave about 1 cm of space at the top for expansion. Seal the containers tightly.

7. Preserving:
Cover the bottles with a blanket or a thick towel to allow for slow cooling. This helps create a natural vacuum that will keep the juice fresh. Once they have completely cooled, store them in a pantry or cellar where the temperature is constant.

Serving suggestions and variations
Tomato juice can be used in numerous recipes, from pasta sauces to soups, or as a base for various dishes. Try it in:

- Pizza sauce: Add oregano and basil, plus a little garlic for an intense flavor.
- Tomato soup: Blending the juice with cream and fresh basil will create a creamy and delicious soup.
- Cocktails: Use the juice as a base for a refreshing "Bloody Mary."

Nutritional benefits
Tomato juice is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its beneficial properties for heart and skin health. It also contains vitamin C and potassium, making it a filling and healthy food.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes?
While plum tomatoes are the most suitable due to their consistency, you can also use other types, but you may end up with a more watery juice.

2. How long can tomato juice be stored?
If stored correctly in sterilized containers, tomato juice can last 1-2 years. Make sure to check the jars for signs of spoilage before use.

3. Is it necessary to add sugar?
Sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but it can be omitted if you prefer a more tart taste. Experiment with the amounts until you find the ideal combination for you.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this tomato juice recipe and enjoy its fresh and delicious flavor in every dish. It’s a wonderful way to preserve the taste of summer and treat your family to tasty sauces and dishes throughout the year. Bon appétit!