Tomato soup, a comforting classic, is perfect for enjoying year-round. Canning your own tomato soup allows you to preserve the vibrant flavors of summer tomatoes and enjoy them long after the growing season ends. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you create a delicious and safe batch of homemade canned tomato soup.
What Kind of Tomatoes Are Best for Canning Tomato Soup?
The best tomatoes for canning soup are those with a high solids content and a rich, full flavor. Roma tomatoes are a popular choice due to their meaty texture and low water content, resulting in a thicker soup. However, you can successfully use a blend of tomatoes, including heirloom varieties, for a more complex flavor profile. Just avoid using very watery tomatoes, as they will result in a thinner, less desirable soup. Consider the balance of sweetness and acidity when selecting your tomatoes for a well-rounded flavor in your final product.
How to Make Tomato Soup for Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe provides a basic framework. Feel free to adjust seasonings to your personal preference.
Ingredients:
- 12 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (approximately 6 lbs)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (optional, for richer flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and peel the tomatoes. Blanching them briefly in boiling water makes peeling much easier. Chop the tomatoes.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter or olive oil (if using) until softened.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. You can simmer longer for a richer flavor.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender or a regular blender in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Canning Process: Follow established safe canning procedures. This typically involves processing the filled jars in a boiling water bath for a specified time according to your altitude. Always consult a reliable canning guide like the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning for precise instructions and processing times. Improper canning techniques can lead to spoilage and foodborne illness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely. Check for seals; the lids should curve inward. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place.
How Long Does Canned Tomato Soup Last?
Properly canned tomato soup can last for 12-18 months, or even longer, if stored correctly. Always check the seal before consuming. If the lid is bulging or the soup appears spoiled (cloudy, moldy, or off-odor), discard it immediately.
What are the safety guidelines for canning tomato soup?
Safety is paramount when canning. Always follow the instructions provided by reliable sources, such as the National Center for Home Food Preservation or the USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning. This includes using the correct jar sizes, lids, and processing times based on your altitude. Improper canning techniques can result in botulism, a severe and potentially fatal foodborne illness.
Can I add cream to my canned tomato soup?
While you can't add cream directly to the soup before canning (as it can negatively impact the canning process and potentially lead to spoilage), you can certainly add heavy cream or half-and-half when you reheat the canned soup. This will add a creamy richness to your already delicious homemade tomato soup.
How do I thicken my canned tomato soup?
If your canned tomato soup is thinner than desired after processing, you can thicken it once you open the can. A simple cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water) added during reheating will work wonders. Alternatively, you could add a spoonful of tomato paste or even a pureed potato for added thickness.
This guide provides a solid foundation for canning your own delicious tomato soup. Remember, safety and proper technique are crucial for creating a safe and enjoyable product. Happy canning!
