A zing of summer flavors at any time of the season! I’m a huge fan of preserved cherry tomatoes. tomato preservers aren’t just an amazing way to preserve the bounty of summer, but they also make a great ingredient to any dish that needs an explosion of vibrant and tangy taste. Take a look as I explore the simple pleasures of preserving your home’s bounty. I guarantee that those who will come after you be grateful you in the colder seasons!
Why Preserve Cherry Tomatoes?
Conserving tomatoes in jars isn’t just about saving produce that isn’t used but also about keeping the essence of summer in the form of a Jar. These tiny but powerful fruit are:
- It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
- An ingredient that can be used in salads, pastas or to serve as a topping for toast.
- Ideal for extending shelf time of your produce.
When you preserve them by preserving them, you can ensure they will keep their sweet and tart flavour can brighten your meals in the middle of winter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the recipe below, you will need these ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh cherry tomatoes
- White Vinegar 4 Cups
- 2 cups of water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 4 sprigs of fresh Thyme
- 2 teaspoons peppercorns from black
- Alternately: 1 teaspoon sugar to neutralize the acidity
These ingredients have been carefully selected in order to boost the naturally sweet flavor of cherry tomatoes. They create an enthralling blend of tart and savory flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sterilize Your Jars
The proper sterilization procedure is crucial to avoid contamination and guarantee the durability of the tomatoes you have preserved. Here’s how:
- Place your lids and jars in hot water to cool in boiling water for about 10 mins.
- Take them out using tongs. Place them on a towels to dry.
2. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes
This will ensure that your tomatoes are able to absorb brine in a way that is effective:
- Create an cross on the side of every cherry tomato.
- To blanch tomatoes, boil them in hot water to cook for 30 seconds..
- Transfer them to an Ice bath in order to let them cool.
- Remove the skins after they have the skins have cooled.
3. Create the Brine
The brine is the main ingredient to this delicious recipe. It helps preserve the tomatoes and adds flavor:
- In a pan, mix with a pan, mix the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if you are using sugar).
- The mixture should be brought to a simmer making sure the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
4. Pack the Jars
Making sure the jars are packed correctly will ensure an even distribution of flavor:
- Put a clove of garlic along with a sprig or sprig of rosemary as well as 1/2 teaspoon peppercorns in each jar.
- The cherry tomatoes should be packed tightly with about 1/2 inch headspace at the top.
5. Seal by Brine
And lastly, put everything in place:
- Sprinkle the boiling brine on the tomatoes and ensuring that they are completely covered and preserving the headspace.
- Clean the rims of the jars Apply the lids and then tighten the bands.
Storage Tips
- A cool and dark Space Place your containers in an cool and dark area until 1 year.
- Refrigeration Once the jar is opened Keep the jar refrigerated and utilize it within 2 weeks..
How to Use Preserved Cherry Tomatoes
As a Side Dish
- Serve them with meats that have been grilled or roasting vegetables.
In Pasta
- Mix them up together with pasta, olive oil and fresh basil to make a delicious dinner.
On Toast
- Spread ricotta on toasty bread, then top it with the sweet tomatoes.
Helpful Notes
- Select Ripe tomatoes Choose fresh and ripe cherry tomatoes to get the most delicious texture.
- Change the flavor add chili flakes for a smoky flavor or rosemary for an earthy flavor.
- Don’t skip sterilization Clean containers will ensure that they are not spoiled.
Tips from the pros
- Chef’s Tips Mix a variety of yellow, red, as well as orange cherries to create an enthralling display.
- Tips for Seasonal Use Conserving tomatoes when they are at their peak will give the best flavor.
- Storage tip Label jars using the date to make it easy to track.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different varieties of tomatoes?
Yes, cherry tomatoes provide the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness that is perfect in this recipe.
2. Do I have to peel tomatoes?
Peeling is not required, but it is it is recommended to get a more smooth texture.
3. How long should I keep preserved tomatoes?
Jars that are not opened can last for as long as one year in the cool dark, dark area.
4. Can I use the brine again?
The best thing to do is create fresh brine for every batch to ensure the safety and taste.
5. What if I don’t own fresh Thyme?
Alternate with dried thyme or another herb such as rosemary, oregano.
Conclusion
Preserving the cherry tomatoes is a straightforward but rewarding method that allows you to relish the taste of summer all through the year. If you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out with making preserves, this recipe gives you the most reliable method to create delicious, vibrant tomatoes. Test it out and get an aroma of sunshine during those winter seasons!
Preserved Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 pints 1x
Description
Learn how to make preserved cherry tomatoes with this easy recipe. Enjoy vibrant, tangy flavors year-round with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh cherry tomatoes
- 4 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
Instructions
- Sterilize Your Jars
- Submerge jars and lids in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove and let dry completely on a clean towel.
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes
- Make a small X on the bottom of each cherry tomato.
- Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice water bath.
- Peel the skins once cooled.
- Create the Brine
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Bring to a boil, ensuring salt and sugar dissolve completely.
- Pack the Jars
- Add a garlic clove, thyme sprig, and ½ teaspoon peppercorns to each sterilized jar.
- Pack the peeled cherry tomatoes tightly, leaving ½ inch of headspace.
- Seal with Brine
- Pour hot brine over tomatoes, covering them completely.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply lids, and tighten bands.
- Process the Jars
- Place jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Remove and let cool at room temperature.
Notes
- Choose Firm Tomatoes: Ripe but firm cherry tomatoes work best for preserving.
- Enhance Flavors: Experiment with spices like chili flakes or rosemary for added depth.
- Storage: Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Label Your Jars: Always date your jars for easy tracking.
- Safety First: Discard any jars showing signs of spoilage, such as bulging lids or off odors
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 20minutes