Easy Way to Can Tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of those rare fruits that actually have more benefit for your health when cooked. Canned stewed tomatoes or tomato juice purchased at the grocery store have many additives, and can be high in salt. The best way to control the quality of the tomato juice you use in cooking is to can the tomatoes yourself.
I grow a lot of tomato plants so that I can make stewed tomatoes and can it for use in the winter. But I don't like to spend the whole day canning like we did when I was a kid. Here's a quick and easier way of doing it that I've found works just as well - it only takes about 30 minutes and you can put them up even if you only have a few ripen at a time.
Supplies
* small canning jars and lids
* medium size sauce pan
* 8 or more ripe tomatoes
* freezer space
Remove the stems and any bad spots, cut the tomatoes in half or quarter depending on size, and cook down to a juice in a sauce pan. A potato masher can help speed things along and make it more consistent, but not necessary if you prefer more whole tomatoes. Pour the juice into the jars and put lids on. When they've completely cooled, place them in your freezer. That's it - no boiling the jars and waiting for them to seal - you're done!
I've used this method for years, the stewed tomatoes taste great, and will keep for over a year in the freezer.
Easy Way to Can Tomatoes was added on October 17, 2008 by Christine Wilhelm and has been viewed 217 times.