Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of homemade Tomato Soup with this delightful recipe designed for canning. Bursting with the natural goodness of ripe tomatoes and aromatic spices, this recipe allows you to preserve the essence of summer and enjoy it all year round. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, this tomato soup will warm your heart and nourish your soul.
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Serving: 8 servings
- Yield: Approximately 6 jars (16 oz each)
- Calories: 150 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 12 cups (2.8 liters) ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 teaspoons (10 g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) red pepper flakes (optional)
Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Immersion blender or blender
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning equipment (jar lifter, canning funnel, etc.)
- Water bath canner or pressure canner
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Start by peeling the tomatoes. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Transfer them to an ice bath, then peel off the skin and chop the tomatoes.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the stockpot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Using an immersion blender or transferring the soup to a blender in batches, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
Step 5: Can the Soup
- Prepare your canning equipment and sterilize the jars. Ladle the hot soup into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims, place the lids and bands on the jars, and process them in a water bath canner for 35 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary) or according to your pressure canner’s instructions.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best-tasting soup.
- For a smoother consistency, pass the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
- Label the canned jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 calories
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 6g
Final Thoughts
This tomato soup recipe for canning allows you to capture the essence of fresh tomatoes and enjoy the flavors of summer throughout the year. With a little effort and the right equipment, you can savor the comforting taste of homemade tomato soup whenever you desire. Delight in the convenience of popping open a jar and indulging in a steaming bowl of this savory delight.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A1: While fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute. Just make sure to choose high-quality canned tomatoes without any added seasonings.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to the Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a touch of roasted garlic to enhance the flavor profile of the soup.
Q3: Can I use a pressure canner instead of a water bath canner for Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A3: Yes, you can use a pressure canner for canning the Tomato Soup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for canning Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning, adjusting the processing time and pressure according to their guidelines.
Q4: Can I use this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning for freezing instead of canning?
A4: Certainly! This Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning can be frozen instead of canned. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some headspace for expansion, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I add dairy or cream to the Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A5: If you prefer a creamy tomato soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to each serving when serving. However, if you plan to can the soup, it’s best to leave out the dairy as it can affect the safety and shelf life of the canned product.
Q6: Can I adjust the seasonings in the Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A6: Absolutely! Season the soup with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of dried thyme, a bay leaf, or even a hint of smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
Q7: Can I double or halve this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A7: Yes, you can easily adjust the quantities of the ingredients to double or halve the Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning. Just ensure that you maintain the proper ratios and adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Q8: Can I use this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning as a base for other recipes?
A8: Definitely! This Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning can serve as a versatile base for various dishes. It can be used as a sauce for pasta, a flavorful addition to stews or casseroles, or even as a base for tomato-based curries.
Q9: Can I use this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning for other types of tomatoes?
A9: Absolutely! This Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning works well with various tomato varieties. You can use Roma tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, or even cherry tomatoes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly depending on the type of tomatoes used.
Q10: Can I add a kick of spice to this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A10: Certainly! If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup during the simmering stage. Adjust the amount according to your tolerance for heat.
Q11: Can I reuse the jars and lids for canning this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A11: It is not recommended to reuse the lids for canning this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning as they may not create a proper seal. However, the jars can be reused as long as they are in good condition and free from cracks or chips.
Q12: Can I store this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning in the refrigerator instead of canning it?
A12: Yes, you can store this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to transfer it to airtight containers once it has cooled down.
Q13: Can I add fresh herbs to this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning?
A13: Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can be added to the soup during the simmering stage to infuse it with additional flavor. Just finely chop the herbs and add them according to your taste preferences.
Q14: Can I use this Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning as a base for a Bloody Mary cocktail?
A14: Indeed! This Tomato Soup Recipe for Canning can be a delightful base for a homemade Bloody Mary cocktail. Just add your preferred vodka, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and other seasonings to create a savory and refreshing beverage.
