Tomato soup, a comforting classic, is even better when you can enjoy it all year round. This guide provides a safe and effective canning recipe for creating your own delicious homemade tomato soup, perfect for enjoying on a chilly evening or using as a base for other recipes. We'll cover everything from selecting the right tomatoes to ensuring proper sterilization for long-term storage.
What Kind of Tomatoes Are Best for Canning Tomato Soup?
The best tomatoes for canning soup are those with a rich, full flavor. Roma tomatoes, with their meaty texture and low water content, are a popular choice. However, you can also use a blend of tomatoes, including heirloom varieties, for a more complex flavor profile. Avoid using overly watery tomatoes, as this can affect the consistency of your final product.
How Much Tomato Soup Will This Recipe Yield?
This recipe will yield approximately 7 pints of canned tomato soup. You can easily double or halve the recipe based on your needs and canning equipment.
Ingredients for Canning Tomato Soup
- 12 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (approximately 6 pounds)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier soup)
Instructions for Canning Tomato Soup
1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and peel your tomatoes. There are several methods for peeling tomatoes; blanching them in boiling water for 30-60 seconds then plunging them into ice water is effective. Chop the tomatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until softened. This enhances the flavor of the soup.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, oregano, pepper, and salt to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have melded. If using, stir in the heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Process and Can: Carefully ladle the hot tomato soup into sterilized pint jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a clean utensil around the inside of the jar. Wipe the jar rims clean, place the lids and rings on the jars, and tighten fingertip-tight.
5. Pressure Can: Process the filled jars in a pressure canner according to the manufacturer's instructions. For pint jars at an altitude of 1,000 feet or less, process for 25 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure. Adjust processing time according to your altitude (always consult a reliable canning resource for altitude adjustments).
6. Cool and Check: After processing, carefully remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn't flex, the jar is sealed.
How Long Can Canned Tomato Soup Be Stored?
Properly canned tomato soup can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place for up to 12-18 months. Always check the seals before using. If a jar is not sealed, refrigerate the contents and consume within a few days.
Can I Freeze Tomato Soup Instead of Canning It?
Yes, you can freeze tomato soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers. Frozen tomato soup will generally last for 2-3 months.
What Are Some Variations of Canned Tomato Soup?
Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup while simmering.
Creamy Tomato Soup (without cream in the can): Add cream or coconut milk after canning when reheating the soup.
Roasted Tomato Soup: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the pot for a deeper, richer flavor.
Remember always to follow safe canning practices. Consult a reliable canning resource, such as the National Center for Home Food Preservation, for detailed instructions and safety guidelines specific to your altitude and equipment. Safe canning is paramount to enjoying your delicious homemade tomato soup for months to come!
