Canning Tomatoes

Are you a newbie who wants to learn about the process of canning tomatoes?  Actually, canning tomatoes is not as complicated as it may seem.  As long as you follow all the procedures step by step, canning is a piece of cake.

Canning tomatoes is a fun activity that can be enjoyed by many.  For some, it is their hobby.  For others, canning is their form of bonding with the kids and family.  Yet others enjoy the canning of tomatoes as it will save them money and at the same time utilize their home grown tomatoes.

In this article, we will show you how to can your tomatoes, step by step.

1.    Gather up your canning jars and lids that you will use.
2.    Examine the jars for cracks and nicks and the lids for dents and if they have them, don’t use them as they will be unsafe.
3.    Make sure that the bands fit properly and if they don’t – don’e use them.  Such conditions prevent proper sealing therefore it is essential to check them.
4.    Sterilize your jars and lids and wash the bands you will use.
5.    Select the tomatoes you will use.  Make sure they are fresh to achieve best tasting canned tomatoes.  Wash them.
6.    Prepare your canner.  Fill it half way with hot water.  Place the canner lid and elevate the rack.
7.    Place the washed tomatoes in a strainer in the boiling water.  Blanch them for 1 minute until you see the skin crack.  Remove from the boiling water and dip them in cold water.
8.    Peel off the skins.  You can cut the tomatoes in halves or leave them whole.
9.    Remove the canning jar and lids with a jar lifter from the hot water.  Place them on a towel.
10.    Add lemon juice to acidify the tomatoes.  Place 1 tablespoon for every pint of jar used.
11.    Leave 1/2 inch of head space when packing tomatoes and adding boiling water.  You may add 1 teaspoon of salt for every quart.
12.    Use a spatula to press tomatoes and release trapped air.
13.    Place the lids securely on the jar.  Screw the band tightly.
14.    Boil the prepared tomatoes in the jar.  Let them boil for 40 minutes.
15.    After the processing time, remove the jars in the canner and let it cool.

There – now isn’t canning tomatoes easy?  If you have any special hints and tips with canning tomatoes, do leave us a comment.