Water bath canning is a safe and reliable method for preserving tomato soup, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, addressing common questions and concerns to ensure your canned tomato soup is both delicious and safe for consumption.
What is Water Bath Canning?
Water bath canning is a method of preserving food by submerging sealed jars in boiling water for a specific amount of time. The heat kills harmful bacteria and creates a vacuum seal, preventing spoilage. This method is suitable for high-acid foods like tomato soup, jams, and pickles. It's crucial to follow tested recipes and procedures precisely to ensure a safe and successful canning process.
How to Make Tomato Soup for Water Bath Canning
Before you begin canning, you'll need to make your tomato soup. While you can use any recipe you enjoy, ensure it's highly acidic (pH 4.6 or lower). This acidity is crucial for preventing botulism, a serious foodborne illness. Adding lemon juice or citric acid can help adjust the pH if needed. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until tomatoes are softened.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. (If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup).
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
What are the Best Tomatoes for Canning Tomato Soup?
The best tomatoes for canning are those that are ripe, but not overripe. Overripe tomatoes can lead to a less flavorful and potentially less stable soup. Roma tomatoes are a popular choice due to their meaty texture and lower water content, resulting in a thicker soup. However, any variety of ripe tomato can be used successfully.
What Jars and Lids Do I Need for Water Bath Canning Tomato Soup?
You will need pint or quart-sized canning jars with new lids and bands. Never reuse lids. The seal on the lid is crucial for safety. Make sure to properly clean and sterilize your jars before filling them.
How Long Do I Need to Process Tomato Soup in a Water Bath Canner?
Processing time depends on your altitude. At altitudes below 1,000 feet, process pint jars for 35 minutes and quart jars for 40 minutes. Adjust processing time according to your altitude— consult a reliable canning resource like the National Center for Home Food Preservation for specific recommendations.
How to Water Bath Can Tomato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare jars and lids: Sterilize jars and lids according to manufacturer instructions.
- Fill jars: Ladle hot tomato soup into jars, leaving ½-inch headspace.
- Remove air bubbles: Run a non-metallic utensil (like a chopstick) around the inside of the jar to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Wipe jar rims: Clean the jar rims thoroughly to ensure a proper seal.
- Place lids and bands: Center lids on jars and tighten bands fingertip tight.
- Process jars: Carefully lower filled jars into a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are completely submerged by at least 1-2 inches of water. Bring water back to a rolling boil and maintain the boil for the appropriate processing time.
- Cool jars: Remove jars from canner and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal.
- Check seals: Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn't flex, the jar is sealed.
- Store jars: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place.
How Long Will Canned Tomato Soup Last?
Properly canned tomato soup can last for 12-18 months, if stored correctly. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as bulging lids or unusual smells or appearances.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of water bath canning tomato soup. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult reliable sources for detailed instructions specific to your altitude and recipe. Enjoy your homemade, delicious, and safely preserved tomato soup!
