Canning Recipes Spaghetti Sauce Fresh Tomatoes
When it comes to preserving fresh produce, canning is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for generations. One of the most popular items to can is spaghetti sauce made with fresh tomatoes. Not only is it a delicious and versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it also allows you to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes all year round. In this article, we will walk you through the process of canning spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes, step-by-step.
What You Will Need:
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few supplies. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 15-20 pounds of fresh tomatoes
- 2-3 onions, diced
- 6-8 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 6-8 pint-sized canning jars with lids and rings
- Canning pot with rack
- Jar lifter
- Bubble remover and headspace tool
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Now that you have all of your supplies, let's get started:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut the tomatoes into quarters and remove the cores. Place the tomatoes in a large pot and cook over medium heat until they begin to break down and release their juices. Use an immersion blender to puree the tomatoes until smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic and cook until the onions are translucent. Add the pureed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 3: Prepare the Jars
While the sauce is simmering, prepare your canning jars by washing them in hot, soapy water and sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Keep the jars hot until you are ready to fill them.
Step 4: Fill the Jars
Using a ladle and a funnel, carefully fill the hot jars with the hot sauce, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Use a bubble remover and headspace tool to remove any air bubbles and adjust the headspace if needed.
Step 5: Seal the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sauce or debris. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the rings until they are finger-tight. Do not overtighten. Place the filled jars in the canning pot with the rack and add enough water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 35 minutes.
Step 6: Store the Jars
Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and carefully remove the jars from the canning pot using a jar lifter. Place the jars on a towel-lined surface and let them cool completely. Check the seals on the jars by pressing down on the center of the lid. If the lid pops back up, the jar did not seal properly and should be refrigerated and used within a few days. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Conclusion:
Canning spaghetti sauce with fresh tomatoes is a great way to preserve the taste of summer all year round. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy homemade spaghetti sauce that is free from preservatives and additives. Plus, it makes a great gift for friends and family who appreciate homemade, flavorful sauces. So, grab some fresh tomatoes and start canning!
