Canning your own tomato sauce is a great way to enjoy the freshest and most flavorful tomatoes all year round. Whether you're a seasoned canning pro, or just starting out, you'll be surprised at how easy and delicious it is to turn your summer harvest into a pantry full of delicious homemade tomato sauce. In this article, we'll take you through the process of canning tomato sauce step by step and provide some tips so that you can get started making your own delicious tomato sauces. Check out our other great canning recipes here!
What is the best way to prepare tomatoes for canning?
The best way to prepare tomatoes for canning is to wash them thoroughly, removing any blemishes or discolorations. It’s also important to core and peel the tomatoes before canning—otherwise, you may end up with a thick, unappetizing sauce.
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How long does it take to can tomato sauce?
The actual process of canning tomato sauce takes about an hour. This includes sterilizing your jars and lids, prepping the ingredients, and boiling the sauce. However, some recipes may require additional time for simmering or straining the sauce before canning.
What type of jar should I use to store my canned tomato sauce?
When storing your canned tomato sauce, make sure to choose a jar that has been specifically designed for canning or preserving food—this will help ensure that the can doesn't leak over time or break during processing in boiling water. Mason jars are a great option as they are widely available in many different sizes and shapes, making them perfect for storing all sorts of sauces and other foods!
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Is it safe to consume home-canned tomato sauce?
Yes! As long as you follow proper procedures when processing the jars (such as ensuring that all ingredients are fresh and washed thoroughly), home-canned tomato sauce should be perfectly safe to consume once sealed properly and then kept at room temperature for up to 18 months.
Can I freeze my homemade tomato sauce after canning?
Yes! Once canned, you can certainly freeze your homemade tomato sauce if desired. Freezing will help preserve its flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy it later on without having to worry about spoilage or shelf-life concerns.
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Directions:
Prepare a boiling water canner.
Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
Add ¼ tsp Ball® Citric Acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot jar.
Ladle hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center the hot lid on the jar. Apply the band and adjust until the fit is fingertip tight.
Process filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool.
Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when the center is pressed.
Canning Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp Ball Citric Acid
Instructions
- Prepare a boiling water canner.
- Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
- Add ¼ tsp Ball® Citric Acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot jar.
- Ladle hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight. Process filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool.
- Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when the center is pressed.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size
1 gramsAmount Per Serving Unsaturated Fat 0g
Canning your own tomato sauce at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. It's a great way to make use of your summer tomatoes and create a pantry full of flavorful and nutritious sauces that will last you all year round. With a little bit of time, patience, and the proper canning technique, you'll be able to fill your kitchen with delicious recipes that everyone in the family will love. So why not give it a try?
Where is the tomato sauce recipe?
I didn’t share mine because it’s a family recipe. But there are many great ones online.
how very generous of you.
So you put the lemon juice in the bottom of hot jar and then the tomato sauce on top of the lemon juice?
Yes if you are canning them. If I have room I will also just freeze the jars, in that case I don’t use the lemon juice.
You say bottled lemon juice here. Can I use fresh lemons and measure out what I need? What does the lemon juice do?