Can You Can Tomato Soup? A Comprehensive Guide to Home Canning
Yes, you absolutely can can tomato soup! Home canning tomato soup is a rewarding way to preserve the delicious flavors of summer and enjoy them throughout the year. However, it's crucial to follow safe canning practices to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses. This guide will walk you through the process, addressing common questions and concerns.
Why Make Homemade Canned Tomato Soup?
Many people choose to can their own tomato soup for several reasons:
- Control over ingredients: You can select ripe, flavorful tomatoes and control the amount of salt, sugar, and other seasonings.
- Cost savings: Buying canned tomatoes and making your own soup can be cheaper than buying pre-made canned soup.
- Superior taste: Homemade tomato soup often tastes fresher and more vibrant than commercially produced options.
- Preservation of the harvest: If you have a bountiful tomato harvest, canning is a great way to prevent waste.
What are the best tomatoes for canning tomato soup?
Roma tomatoes are a popular choice for canning because of their low moisture content and meaty texture. However, you can use any variety of tomatoes you prefer, such as heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes (though you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly). Ripe, flavorful tomatoes will yield the best-tasting soup.
What equipment do I need to can tomato soup?
Canning tomato soup requires specific equipment to ensure safety and success:
- Pressure canner: This is essential for safely canning tomato soup to prevent botulism, a serious foodborne illness. Never can low-acid foods like tomato soup using a boiling water bath canner.
- Jars and lids: Use mason jars with new lids and bands. Properly cleaned and sterilized jars and lids are paramount for successful canning.
- Jar lifter: This tool will help you safely handle hot jars.
- Ladle: For transferring the hot soup into jars.
- Funnel: To help avoid spills when filling jars.
- Bubble remover: To remove air bubbles from jars.
- Magnetic lid lifter: Helps prevent burning your fingers.
How do I make and can tomato soup safely?
Detailed instructions for canning tomato soup vary slightly depending on the recipe, but the general process involves:
- Preparing the tomatoes: Wash, core, and chop the tomatoes. You can then cook them down or blend them, depending on your preferred soup consistency.
- Making the soup: Add your desired seasonings (onions, garlic, herbs, spices) and simmer the tomato mixture.
- Processing the soup in a pressure canner: This is the critical step for safety. Follow the instructions in your chosen recipe carefully. The processing time will depend on your altitude and the size of your jars. Improper processing times can lead to spoilage and botulism.
- Cooling and storing: Allow the jars to cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the lids seal. Check for proper seals; if any lids don't seal, refrigerate the soup and consume it within a week.
How long does canned tomato soup last?
Properly canned tomato soup can last for 12-18 months or even longer if stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I freeze tomato soup instead of canning it?
Yes, you can freeze tomato soup. Freezing is a simpler method than canning, but it doesn't offer the same long-term shelf life. Frozen tomato soup should be consumed within 3-6 months for best quality.
Canning tomato soup is a rewarding experience, but safety is paramount. Always consult a reliable, updated canning guide or resource for specific instructions and safety precautions. Remember, proper processing in a pressure canner is the key to preventing foodborne illnesses. Enjoy your delicious homemade canned tomato soup!
