Canning your own tomato soup is a rewarding experience, allowing you to savor the taste of fresh, homegrown tomatoes throughout the year. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you create delicious and safely preserved tomato soup. We'll cover everything from selecting the right tomatoes to the final sealing process, addressing common questions along the way.
What Kind of Tomatoes are Best for Canning Soup?
The ideal tomatoes for canning soup are those with a rich, robust flavor. Roma tomatoes, with their meaty texture and low water content, are a popular choice. However, you can also use a blend of different varieties for a more complex flavor profile. Avoid using tomatoes that are overripe, bruised, or damaged, as these can affect the quality and safety of your canned soup.
How Much Tomato Soup Can I Can at Once?
The amount of tomato soup you can can at once depends on the size of your canner and jars. It's crucial to avoid overcrowding your canner, as this can lead to uneven processing and potentially unsafe preservation. Always refer to your canner's instructions and the recommended headspace guidelines for jar sizes. Processing times are also dependent on altitude.
How Long Does Homemade Canned Tomato Soup Last?
Properly canned tomato soup, stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, can last for 12 to 18 months. Always check the seals on your jars before storing them. If a seal is compromised, the soup should be refrigerated and consumed promptly.
What is the Best Recipe for Canning Tomato Soup?
This recipe yields approximately 7 pints of tomato soup:
Ingredients:
- 12 pounds ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (approximately 12-15 medium Roma tomatoes)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and peel the tomatoes. A simple method involves scoring an "X" at the bottom of each tomato and blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This will loosen the skins, making them easy to peel. Chop the tomatoes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
- Puree the Soup (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Can the Soup: Ladle the hot soup into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic utensil around the inside of the jar. Wipe the rims clean, place lids and bands, and process according to your altitude in a boiling water bath canner. Follow your canner's instructions carefully.
What is the Correct Canning Process for Tomato Soup?
This step is crucial for food safety. The processing time depends on your altitude. Always consult a reliable canning resource like the National Center for Home Food Preservation for precise instructions based on your location and jar size. Improper processing can lead to spoilage and potential foodborne illness.
How Do I Know if My Canned Tomato Soup is Spoiled?
Signs of spoilage include bulging lids, leaking jars, mold, or an off odor. If you notice any of these signs, do not consume the soup. Discard it immediately.
Can I Freeze Tomato Soup Instead of Canning It?
Yes, you can freeze tomato soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing it in airtight containers. Frozen tomato soup will generally last for 2-3 months.
By following these instructions and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the delicious taste of homemade canned tomato soup year-round. Remember to always refer to updated and reliable canning resources for the most accurate information and to ensure safe preservation techniques. Happy canning!
