Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning- Preserve the Freshness

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I’m thrilled to share my special homemade tomato juice recipe for canning with you today; it’s ideal for canning. 

There’s nothing quite like popping open a jar of your own garden-fresh tomato juice in the middle of winter. It’s a fulfilling way to enjoy summer’s flavor all year long. Now let’s explore canning with this delectable recipe for tomato juice!

Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning
Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning

How To Make Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning?

Preparation Times: 1.5 hours

Yields: Approximately 4 quarts of tomato juice

Equipment Needed

  • Large stockpot
  • Glass canning jars with lids and bands
  • Water bath canner
  • Jar lifter
  • Food mill or fine-mesh sieve
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Funnel
  • Ladle
  • Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

  • 20 lbs ripe tomatoes (any variety)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step-1. Prepare the Tomatoes

  • Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes.
  • Cut the tomatoes into quarters, removing the cores.

Step-2. Cook the Tomatoes

  • Place the prepared tomatoes in a large stockpot.
  • Simmer on medium heat, stirring often, for about 30 minutes, or until they start to collapse and release their juices.

Step-3. Extract the Juice

  • Pass the cooked tomatoes through a food mill or strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large mixing bowl to separate the juice from the skins and seeds.
  • Discard the solids.

Step-4. Season the Juice

  • Return the tomato juice to the stockpot and add salt.
  • Add sugar if desired, to balance the acidity. This step is optional.

Step-5. Simmer and Sterilize

  • Simmer the tomato juice for 10 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
  • While the juice is simmering, prepare your canning jars, lids, and bands by sterilizing them in boiling water.

Step-6. Fill the Jars

  • Using a ladle and funnel, fill the sterilized jars with the hot tomato juice, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.

Step-7. Process the Jars

  • Wipe the jar rims to ensure a clean seal, then place the lids on top.
  • Screw the bands on until they’re fingertip-tight.
  • Submerge the filled jars in a water bath canner, making sure they are covered with at least 1 inch of water.
  • Process the jars for 40 minutes, adjusting for altitude as needed.

Step-8. Cool and Store

  • Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack.
  • Allow the jars to cool for 12-24 hours. You’ll hear the satisfying “pop” as the lids seal.
  • Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

Nutrition Facts Of Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning

  • Calories: 20
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g

Serving Suggestions

1. Enjoy as a Beverage

  • Canned tomato juice is perfect for sipping on its own, seasoned to taste with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

2. In Cooking and Cocktails

  • Use your homemade tomato juice in recipes like soups, stews, and cocktails. It adds a burst of fresh tomato flavor to any dish.

Tips and Variations

Tips-1. Varietal Tomatoes

  • Experiment with different types of tomatoes to discover unique flavor profiles.

Tips-2. Seasoning

  • Customize the seasoning to your preference. Some enjoy adding a dash of hot sauce or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Tips-3. Texture

  • Adjust the texture by running the juice through the food mill multiple times for a smoother consistency.

Health Benefits Of Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning

1. Rich in Vitamins

  • Tomato juice is an excellent source of vitamins C and A, promoting healthy skin, vision, and a strong immune system.

2. Antioxidants

  • Tomatoes contain antioxidants, such as lycopene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

3. Low-Calorie

  • Tomato juice is low in calories and can be part of a balanced diet.

FAQs: About Tomato Juice Recipe For Canning

1: Can I use any type of tomato for this recipe?

2: Do I have to add sugar to the juice?

  • The sugar is optional and can be adjusted to your taste. It’s added to balance acidity, but you can omit it if you prefer.

3: How long can I store the canned tomato juice?

  • When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, your tomato juice can last up to 12-18 months.

Conclusion

Canning your own Tomato Juice is a rewarding and practical way to preserve the essence of summer. Whether you savor it as a refreshing beverage or use it to enhance your culinary creations, your homemade tomato juice is sure to be a pantry staple.

I hope you enjoy this recipe and find the taste of summer in every jar. Happy canning!