Tomato Canning Marathon: Preserving 500lbs of Fresh Tomatoes for Year-Round Deliciousness

Mastering the Tomato Canning Marathon: A Guide to Preserving 500lbs of Fresh Tomatoes

Embarking on the journey of canning 500lbs of tomatoes is no small feat, but the rewards are undoubtedly worth the effort.

 After hours of hard work, dedication, and a labor of love, the final tally stands at an impressive 187 quarts and 1 pint of beautifully preserved tomatoes. In this article, we celebrate the completion of this tomato canning marathon and share insights into the process, along with a delicious recipe to inspire you to make the most of your own home-canned tomatoes.

Recipe: Savory Tomato Basil Soup with Home-Canned Tomatoes

Ingredients:

• - 4 cups home-canned tomatoes (approximately 1 quart)

• - 1 onion, finely chopped

• - 3 cloves garlic, minced

• - 2 tablespoons olive oil

• - 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• - 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• - Salt and pepper to taste

• - Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics:

•    - Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

•    - Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.

•    - Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its aroma, stirring       occasionally.

2. Add the home-canned tomatoes:

•    - Pour in the home-canned tomatoes, including their juice, into the pot with the               sautéed onions and garlic.

•    - Stir well to combine the ingredients.

3. Simmer the soup:

•    - Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, stirring to incorporate it into the             tomato mixture.

•    - Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for           about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Season and blend:

•    - Stir in the chopped fresh basil and dried oregano.

•    - Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

•    - Using an immersion blender or a countertop blender, carefully blend the soup until       smooth and creamy.

5. Serve and garnish:

•    - Ladle the savory tomato basil soup into bowls.

•    - Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.

•    - Serve hot alongside crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting             and satisfying meal.

The completion of the tomato canning marathon, resulting in an impressive 187 quarts and 1 pint of home-canned tomatoes, marks a significant achievement in preserving the bountiful harvest of fresh tomatoes. These preserved gems hold the promise of vibrant flavors and the taste of summer all year round. By transforming a portion of these home-canned tomatoes into a savory tomato basil soup, you can indulge in the fruits of your labor and relish the comforting goodness that only homemade canned tomatoes can provide. So, celebrate the journey, savor the flavors, and enjoy the convenience and satisfaction of having your own stash of home-canned tomatoes to enhance your culinary creations throughout the year.