Keep FRESQUES tomatoes for 2 years! Without water, salt, or vinegar!
Preserving tomatoes can sometimes be difficult, especially when you want to keep them fresh for a long time. However, there is a simple and effective method that allows you to preserve tomatoes for up to two years without adding water, salt, or vinegar. This process relies on properly sterilizing both the jars and the tomatoes themselves. Here are the detailed steps for successful long-term preservation.
Necessary equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools:
- Good quality fresh tomatoes
- 1500 ml glass jars (or other sizes according to your preferences)
- A clean cloth or towel
- A large pot for heating water
- A cloth for cleaning the jars
- Metal lids for jars
Step 1: Choose the tomatoes
To ensure proper preservation, it is essential to choose fresh, ripe, and undamaged tomatoes. Avoid overripe or damaged tomatoes, as they may not store well and may affect the flavor. Tomatoes should be bright red and firm. Remove stems and any imperfections.
Step 2: Sterilizing the jars
Sterilization is a crucial step in preserving your tomatoes. Start by thoroughly washing the glass jars with hot water and soap. Afterward, it’s important to dry them completely, as moisture in the jar could lead to mold growth.
Next, place the jars in a large container filled with hot water. Heat this water to a temperature of approximately 200°C. This sterilization process should last approximately 20 minutes. You can also use a jar sterilizer if you have one. The goal is to kill all bacteria and germs present in the jars, ensuring prolonged preservation.
Once the jars are sterilized, carefully remove them from the hot water. Place them on a clean cloth to air dry.
Step 3: Prepare the tomatoes
While the jars are sterilizing, it’s time to prepare the tomatoes. Wash them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Next, make a small cross-shaped incision at the base of each tomato, then quickly immerse them in boiling water for about a minute. This will make it easier to peel the skin off the tomatoes.
Once the tomatoes are peeled, place them in a clean container. Cut them into chunks if desired, or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Fill the jars
Now that the tomatoes are ready, it’s time to place them in the jars. Take a sterilized jar and start adding the tomatoes, making sure to pack them down slightly to avoid too much air entering the jar. You can fill the jars to about 2 to 3 cm from the rim. It’s important not to leave any empty space, as this could affect the preservation of the tomatoes.
Once the jars are filled, wipe the rims with a clean cloth to ensure there is no residue. This will help ensure a secure seal and prevent contamination.
Step 5: Close the jars
Sealing jars is a crucial step in successful preservation. Use suitable metal lids and close them tightly. It is essential that air does not enter the jars, as this could lead to mold growth and affect preservation.
To ensure an even better seal, you can heat a little water in a large saucepan. Then, immerse the sealed jars in the hot water for a few minutes to strengthen their seal. This will ensure the lid stays securely in place and prevents air from getting in.
Step 6: Store the jars
Once your jars are properly sealed, you can store them in a cool, dry, and dark place. It’s important to choose a location where the temperature remains constant and moderate. Avoid areas exposed to heat, direct light, or humidity, as this can affect the quality of preservation.
The jars should remain in this location for a period of two years. During this time, the tomatoes should retain their freshness, flavor, and texture. You won’t need to refrigerate them or add any other preservatives.
Conclusion
The method for preserving tomatoes without water, salt, or vinegar relies on careful sterilization and proper storage of the jars. By following these steps, you can preserve fresh tomatoes for two years without losing their quality. Always make sure to choose tomatoes in good condition and follow the sterilization process to ensure successful preservation. This way, you can enjoy fresh tomatoes all year round, even outside their production season.
