Preserve Fresh Tomatoes for 2 Years — No Vinegar Needed!
A Foolproof Method for Long-Lasting, Flavorful Homemade Tomato Preserves
There’s nothing quite like the taste of ripe summer tomatoes — sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. But what if you could enjoy that same fresh-picked taste even in the dead of winter? With this reliable preservation method, you can keep tomatoes fresh and full of flavor for up to two years—and you won’t need a single drop of vinegar.
Forget bland supermarket tomatoes during colder months. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can stock your pantry with homemade tomato preserves that elevate everything from pasta sauces to soups and stews.
Why This Tomato Preservation Method Works
This approach captures tomatoes at their peak ripeness and seals in their natural flavor without any chemical additives or vinegar. It’s incredibly simple and ideal for home gardeners or anyone wanting to maximize seasonal harvests.
- No vinegar or artificial preservatives
- Shelf-stable for up to 24 months
- Packed with fresh, homemade flavor
- Easy, few-ingredient process
Choosing the Best Tomatoes for Preserving
The key to delicious, long-lasting preserves is picking the right tomatoes. Choose ripe, flavorful varieties that detach easily from the stem. Homegrown tomatoes are best, but local market vendors can help you find ideal preserving types.
Pro tip: Let tomatoes rest a couple of days after picking or buying — slight ripening enhances sweetness and depth in your final preserves.
Ingredients for 3 x 2L Jars
- 7 kg fresh, ripe tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves (to taste)
- Boiling water (for sterilizing jars)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Blender or food processor
- Sterilized glass jars with lids (3 jars of 2 liters each)
- Large boiling water bath pot
- Funnel and ladle (optional, for easy filling)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Shelf life: Up to 2 years
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sterilize the Jars
Thoroughly wash your jars and lids. Submerge them in boiling water for several minutes to sterilize, then place them on a clean towel to air-dry.
2. Prepare the Tomato Puree
Cut the tomatoes into chunks and blend them until smooth. Pour the puree into a large pot and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that forms, then simmer for a few minutes before removing from heat.
3. Fill the Jars
Gently pierce whole tomatoes with a fork and pack them into sterilized jars. Pour the hot tomato puree over the tomatoes, leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Add fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
4. Seal and Vacuum
Seal jars tightly with sterilized lids. Place jars in a large pot of boiling water, fully submerged. Boil for several minutes to create a vacuum seal that preserves freshness and prevents spoilage.
5. Cool and Store
Once jars have cooled completely, store them in a cool, dark, dry place. Avoid temperature fluctuations to maintain optimal shelf life.
Important Tips & Notes
- Always inspect your jars before use. Discard if color, smell, or taste is off.
- Ensure seals are tight; a proper vacuum is essential for long-term preservation.
- Use your preserved tomatoes in sauces, soups, stews, or risottos for a burst of summer flavor any time of year.
Preserve Fresh Tomatoes for 2 Years
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sterilize jars and lids by boiling for several minutes; air-dry.
- Cut tomatoes and blend until smooth; bring puree to a boil in a pot. Skim foam and simmer a few minutes.
- Pierce whole tomatoes with a fork; pack into sterilized jars. Pour hot puree over, leaving 1-inch headspace. Add basil leaves.
- Seal jars tightly. Submerge in boiling water bath for several minutes to create vacuum seal.
- Cool jars completely; store in cool, dark, dry place for up to 2 years.
Notes
* Ensure airtight seals for preservation.
* Perfect for sauces, soups, and stews year-round.