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 guide provides a step-by-step process, addressing common concerns and ensuring you achieve perfectly preserved, delicious tomato soup. Remember, safety is paramount when canning; always follow tested recipes and procedures meticulously.
What is Water Bath Canning?
Water bath canning involves submerging sealed jars of food 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 (provided it has sufficient acidity; see below).
Is My Tomato Soup Acidic Enough for Water Bath Canning?
This is crucial. Improperly acidic foods are vulnerable to botulism, a serious and potentially fatal illness. Tomato soup usually has enough acidity, but certain variations might require adjustments. A pH meter provides the most accurate measurement. Ideally, your tomato soup's pH should be below 4.6. If you're unsure, adding lemon juice or citric acid (following a tested recipe) can increase acidity to a safe level. Never guess – err on the side of caution.
How to Make Tomato Soup for Water Bath Canning
This recipe yields approximately 7 pints of tomato soup. Adjust quantities as needed.
Ingredients:
- 12 cups ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (about 6 pounds)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Simmer Tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until tomatoes have softened. If using, stir in fresh basil during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender in batches (be cautious of hot liquids).
- Canning: Ladle the hot soup into sterilized pint jars, leaving ½ inch headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic utensil around the inside of the jar. Wipe the jar rims clean, place lids and rings on the jars, and tighten fingertip tight.
- Process: Place jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they're fully submerged by at least 1 inch of water. Bring water to a rolling boil and process for 35 minutes (for pint jars at altitudes up to 1,000 feet). Adjust processing time based on your altitude; consult a reliable canning guide for altitude adjustments.
- Cool and Check Seals: Remove jars from the canner and let them cool completely, undisturbed, for at least 12 hours. Check seals by pressing the center of each lid; if it doesn't flex, the seal is successful.
How Long Does Canned Tomato Soup Last?
Properly canned tomato soup, stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, will last for 12-18 months. Always check for signs of spoilage (bulging lids, mold, unusual odor) before consuming.
Can I Freeze Tomato Soup Instead of Canning It?
Yes, freezing is another excellent preservation method for tomato soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. Frozen soup typically lasts for 6-12 months.
What if My Canned Tomato Soup Doesn't Seal?
If a jar doesn't seal, it's not safe to store it long-term. Refrigerate the soup and consume it within a few days. Possible reasons for a failed seal include improper jar preparation, insufficient processing time, or a faulty lid.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in My Canned Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Experiment with adding other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. However, remember to adjust cooking times as needed and always stick to established canning recipes for safe processing.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of water bath canning tomato soup. Remember to always consult a reliable, up-to-date canning resource, such as the National Center for Home Food Preservation, for the most accurate and safe canning instructions specific to your location and altitude. Safe canning practices are crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses.
