Spaghetti Sauce For Water Bath Canning

Spaghetti sauce is a staple in most American households. It's easy to make, versatile, and can be used in a variety of dishes. However, store-bought spaghetti sauce can be high in sugar, sodium, and preservatives. Making your own spaghetti sauce at home is not only healthier but also more cost-effective.

Why Water Bath Canning?

Water bath canning is a simple and safe way to preserve foods at home. It's a great method for canning high-acid foods like tomatoes, pickles, and fruits. The process involves submerging filled jars in boiling water for a set amount of time to kill any bacteria and create a tight seal.

Ingredients

Making spaghetti sauce for water bath canning requires a few key ingredients:

Tomatoes (10 pounds)
Onion (2 medium-sized)
Garlic (6 cloves)
Red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Salt (1 tablespoon)
Basil (1/2 cup fresh or 2 tablespoons dried)
Lemon juice (1/4 cup)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious and healthy spaghetti sauce for water bath canning:

Related Spaghetti

Wash and chop the tomatoes, onions, and garlic.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until they are soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the sauce until it is smooth.
Return the sauce to the pot and add the lemon juice and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids on top.
Place the jars into a large pot of boiling water, making sure they are fully submerged. Boil the jars for 35 minutes (adjust for altitude), then remove them from the water and let them cool on a wire rack.
Check the seals on the jars by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it doesn't pop back up, the seal is good. Label and store the jars in a cool, dark place.

Tips

Here are a few tips to make the best spaghetti sauce for water bath canning:

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Remove the skins and seeds from the tomatoes before cooking to create a smoother sauce.
Adjust the amount of salt and red pepper flakes to your taste.
Add other herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Store the jars in a cool, dry place and use within a year for best quality.

Conclusion

Making spaghetti sauce for water bath canning is a great way to enjoy delicious and healthy sauce all year round. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flavorful sauce that's perfect for pasta, pizza, and more. Follow these tips to make the best spaghetti sauce and enjoy the taste of homemade goodness!