A Guide to Canning, Freezing, and Drying
Cherry tomatoes are a sweet and juicy treat that can be enjoyed year-round with proper preservation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preserving cherry tomatoes:
Canning Cherry Tomatoes
Canning is a popular method of preserving cherry tomatoes as it provides a long-term shelf life. Here’s how to do it:
- Select ripe and firm cherry tomatoes.
- Wash and sterilize the jars and lids.
- Boil the cherry tomatoes for 2-3 minutes to loosen the skin.
- Remove the skins and place the tomatoes in the jars, leaving about a half inch of headspace.
- Add vinegar and salt to the jars, if desired.
- Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the jars.
- Allow the jars to cool and store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Freezing Cherry Tomatoes
Freezing Tomatoes is a quick and easy way to preserve cherry tomatoes for later use. Here’s how to freeze cherry tomatoes:
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes.
- Place the cherry tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the cherry tomatoes are frozen, about 2-3 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cherry tomatoes to a freezer bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Store the cherry tomatoes in the freezer for up to 8-12 months.
Drying
Drying is a traditional method of preserving cherry tomatoes that concentrates their sweet flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Select ripe and plump cherry tomatoes.
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes.
- Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and remove the seeds.
- Arrange the cherry tomato halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in a dehydrator or low temperature oven (around 140°F) and dry until the cherry tomatoes are chewy and leathery, about 6-8 hours.
- Store the dried cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
No matter which method you choose, preserving cherry tomatoes is a great way to enjoy their sweet and juicy flavor all year round.
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