Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce
Roasted Tomato Sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that can brighten up any meal. Making your own homemade sauce allows you to use fresh ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking. This Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce recipe not only shares how to create a tasty sauce but also guides you on how to preserve it safely for future use.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make this roasted tomato sauce? For starters, it’s a great way to use up a bountiful harvest of tomatoes from your garden. This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a sauce that can be used in pasta dishes, soups, or as a pizza base. Plus, canning this sauce means you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round!
How to Make Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce
Making roasted tomato sauce is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create your own flavorful sauce to enjoy and preserve.
Ingredients:
- 23 pounds tomatoes (a variety of paste, heirloom, and cutting provides the best flavor & consistency)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
- 3 cups chopped onions
- 6 medium cloves garlic (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons canning salt (or pure sea salt – use a salt with no additives)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil (to taste)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, but we love it)
- Citric acid or bottled lemon juice (see amounts needed for different size jars below)
Directions:
- Heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Halve all ingredients to work in two batches. Divide the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if using), onions, garlic, and dry seasonings between 2 or 3 roasting pans.
- Wash the tomatoes, remove the cores and blossom ends, then cut them in half and gently squeeze out some seeds. Place them cut side down in the prepared pans.
- Roast the tomatoes for about 40 minutes until most of the skins are puffed and browned. Remove from the oven and use tongs to pluck off the skins; it’s okay if some stay on.
- Scrape the roasted vegetables into a large stockpot, set aside, and repeat the prep and roasting with the remaining half of the ingredients (unless you are making just a half batch – then just proceed to the next step).
- Using an immersion blender, blend the roasted ingredients until smooth. If you’d like to strain out the seeds, use a wire mesh sieve now.
- Bring the smooth sauce to a boil over medium-high heat. Lower the heat and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency, stirring often. This can take about 45 minutes to 1 hour or more, depending on your tomato varieties. Adjust salt and seasonings to taste.
- Prepare your water bath canner, jars, and lids.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon citric acid to pint jars (1/2 teaspoon to quarts) OR 1 tablespoon bottled lemon juice to pint jars (2 tablespoons for quarts). Ladle the hot tomato sauce into hot jars, one at a time, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Wipe the rims, attach lids, and place them in the canner rack.
- Process for 35 minutes for pints and 40 minutes for quarts (if processing both together, use the longer time). Note: start the processing time after the canner reaches a full boil and then adjust heat to maintain a low boil.
- Turn off the burner, remove the lid, and let jars rest in the canner for 5 minutes. Transfer jars to a towel-lined surface and let them cool for 24 hours. Check seals, label, and store for up to a year.
How to Serve Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce
This roasted tomato sauce can be served in many creative ways. Use it as a base for pasta dishes, add it to soups and stews, or spread it on pizzas. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce
Store the sealed jars of tomato sauce in a cool, dark place like a pantry. It can last up to a year if stored properly. Once opened, keep any unused sauce in the refrigerator and consume it within a week.
Tips to Make Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of your sauce.
- Make sure to use fully ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Always check the seals on your jars to ensure they are properly sealed before storing.
Variation
Consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for an additional flavor boost. You can also try adding fresh herbs instead of dried, adjusting them based on what you have on hand.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes! A mix of paste, heirloom, and cutting tomatoes gives the best flavor and consistency.
2. How long does the canned sauce last?
When sealed properly, it can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.
3. Is it necessary to add citric acid or lemon juice?
Yes, adding citric acid or lemon juice is important for safe canning, as it helps increase the acidity of the sauce.
Enjoy making your own Safe Water Bath Canned Roasted Tomato Sauce and savor the rich flavors throughout the year!
