Preserving Tomatoes Without Fridge: A Comprehensive Guide
Tomatoes are one of the most versatile and commonly used vegetables in cooking. They can be used in salads, soups, stews, and sauces, among other things. However, they can also be quite perishable, which can be a problem for those who want to keep them for an extended period. Fortunately, there are several ways to preserve tomatoes without a fridge. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective methods.
Method 1: Canning Tomatoes
Canning tomatoes is a popular way to preserve them for an extended period. The process involves sterilizing glass jars and then filling them with tomatoes that have been peeled, seeded, and chopped. The jars are then sealed and processed in a boiling water bath. Canned tomatoes can last for up to 18 months if stored in a cool, dry place.
To can tomatoes, you will need:
- Fresh tomatoes
- Glass canning jars with lids and bands
- A large pot for boiling water
- A canning rack or a clean kitchen towel
- A jar lifter
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large bowl of ice water
- Salt (optional)
Here are the steps to follow:
Sterilize the jars and lids by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Use a canning rack or a clean kitchen towel to keep the jars from touching the bottom of the pot.
Prepare the tomatoes by washing them thoroughly and removing the stem and blossom end. Cut an X on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove the tomatoes with a slotted spoon and place them in the ice water to stop the cooking process.
Peel the tomatoes and remove the seeds and core. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in a bowl.
Fill the sterilized jars with the chopped tomatoes, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt per pint jar, if desired.
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on the jars.
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes for pint jars and 45 minutes for quart jars.
Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel for 12-24 hours. Check the seals on the jars by pressing the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t move, the jar is sealed.
Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dry place.
Method 2: Drying Tomatoes
Drying tomatoes is another effective way to preserve them without a fridge. Dried tomatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, including pasta dishes, salads, and sandwiches. To dry tomatoes, you will need:
- Fresh tomatoes
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A baking sheet
- Olive oil
- Salt (optional)
- Herbs (optional)
Here are the steps to follow:
Preheat the oven to 200°F.
Wash the tomatoes and cut them into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
Place the tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the slices with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and herbs, if desired.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tomatoes for 6-8 hours, or until they are completely dried out. Check the tomatoes every hour and remove any that are done.
Let the dried tomatoes cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Method 3: Freezing Tomatoes
Freezing tomatoes is a convenient way to preserve them without a fridge. Frozen tomatoes can be used in sauces, stews, and soups. To freeze tomatoes, you will need:
- Fresh tomatoes
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large pot of boiling water
- A large bowl of ice water
- Freezer bags or containers
Here are the steps to follow:
Wash the tomatoes and remove the stem and blossom end. Cut an X on the bottom of each tomato.
Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transfer them to the ice water to stop the cooking process.
Peel the tomatoes and remove the seeds and core.
Chop the tomatoes into small pieces and place them in freezer bags or containers. Label the bags or containers with the date.
Place the bags or containers in the freezer and store them for up to 12 months.
Method 4: Making Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes that can be used as a base for sauces, stews, and soups. Making tomato paste is a great way to preserve tomatoes without a fridge. To make tomato paste, you will need:
- Fresh tomatoes
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- Olive oil
- Salt (optional)
- Herbs (optional)
Here are the steps to follow:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Wash the tomatoes and cut them into quarters.
Place the tomato quarters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and herbs, if desired.
Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until they are very soft and slightly browned.
Let the roasted tomatoes cool and then transfer them to a blender or food processor. Puree the tomatoes until they are smooth.
Place the pureed tomatoes in a large pot and simmer them over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the mixture has thickened and reduced by half.
Let the tomato paste cool and then store it in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
Preserving tomatoes without a fridge is an excellent way to enjoy fresh tomatoes all year round. Whether you choose to can, dry, freeze, or make tomato paste, each method has its unique benefits that can help you preserve the flavor and nutrients of tomatoes. With the proper preparation and storage, you can enjoy the delicious taste of tomatoes in your favorite dishes without worrying about spoilage.