How Do You Cold Pack Tomatoes?
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from salads to sauces. However, if you have a surplus of tomatoes and want to preserve them for later use, cold packing is an excellent method. Cold packing involves preserving fruits or vegetables by packing them into jars and covering them with a cold brine or liquid. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cold pack tomatoes:
Step 1: Selecting the right tomatoes
Choose tomatoes that are ripe but firm, as overly ripe tomatoes may become mushy when preserved. Look for tomatoes with vibrant colors and no signs of rot or blemishes.
Step 2: Preparing the jars
Make sure your canning jars are clean and sterilized before use. Wash them with hot soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and place them in a large pot of boiling water for about ten minutes to sterilize.
Step 3: Preparing the tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any stems or imperfections, and blanch them by placing them in boiling water for about 30-60 seconds. Once blanched, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to cool. This will make it easier to remove their skins.
Step 4: Peeling the tomatoes
Once the tomatoes are cool, the skins should easily slip off. Use a knife or your fingers to gently peel away the skin from each tomato.
Step 5: Packing the jars
Fill each sterilized jar with peeled tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. You can pack them whole or cut them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Adding the liquid
Prepare a cold brine solution by dissolving salt in water. The ratio is typically one tablespoon of salt for every quart of water. Pour the brine over the tomatoes, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave the 1/2 inch headspace at the top.
Step 7: Removing air bubbles
Gently tap the jars on a countertop to help release any trapped air bubbles. You can also use a non-metallic utensil, such as a chopstick, to remove air bubbles by running it around the inside edges of the jar.
Step 8: Sealing the jars
Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight. Do not overtighten.
Step 9: Processing the jars
Place the jars in a boiling water canner, making sure they are fully submerged with at least one inch of water covering the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a rolling boil and process for the recommended time based on your altitude and jar size. This can range from 35 to 85 minutes.
Step 10: Cooling and storing
Once the jars have been processed, carefully remove them from the canner and place them on a towel or rack to cool. As they cool, you should hear a popping sound, indicating that the jars have sealed. Let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use any type of tomato for cold packing?
Yes, you can use any type of tomato for cold packing, but it is best to choose ripe but firm tomatoes.
2. How long will cold packed tomatoes last?
When stored properly, cold packed tomatoes can last up to 12 months.
3. Can I use cold packed tomatoes in recipes that call for fresh tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cold packed tomatoes can be used in any recipe that calls for fresh tomatoes.
4. Can I reuse the brine for cold packing?
No, it is not recommended to reuse the brine as it may contain bacteria from the previous use.
5. Can I add herbs or spices to the brine for additional flavor?
Yes, you can add herbs, spices, or even garlic cloves to the brine for added flavor.
6. Do I have to blanch the tomatoes before cold packing?
Blanching the tomatoes makes it easier to remove their skins, but it is not necessary. You can skip this step if desired.
7. Can I use plastic containers instead of glass jars for cold packing?
Plastic containers are not recommended for cold packing as glass jars provide a better seal and are more resistant to temperature changes.
8. Can I cold pack tomatoes without using salt?
Salt helps preserve the tomatoes and enhance their flavor, but you can skip it if desired. However, the shelf life may be slightly reduced.
9. Can I store cold packed tomatoes in the refrigerator?
Cold packed tomatoes do not require refrigeration if properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is only necessary after opening.
10. Can I reuse the jars for cold packing?
Yes, as long as the jars are in good condition and properly sterilized, they can be reused for cold packing.
11. Can I freeze cold packed tomatoes instead of canning them?
Yes, you can freeze cold packed tomatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to leave enough headspace in the jars to allow for expansion.
12. Are cold packed tomatoes safe to eat?
When properly processed and stored, cold packed tomatoes are safe to eat. However, always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.