Thimna MatikaSpring and summer are the best time to cultivate tomatoes. These red juicy fruits are easy to grow from seed. They blossom from yellow flowers to abundant hanging fruits.
Once the fruits have fallen on the ground, the seeds have the ability to sprout new plants. This means that once you have tomatoes in your garden, they continue growing exponentially.
Pruning the leaves and staking the stems and branches are essential for the optimal healthy growth of tomato plants and fruits. Tomatoes can be harvested when ripe red, yellow, or orange. The shelf life of fresh tomatoes is 2-5 days, therefore tomato preservation methods are essential for tomato growers.
Here are some tips on how to preserve your bountiful tomato harvest this season:
Canning
Canning is a popular method to preserve tomatoes while maintaining their flavor. Start by sterilizing your canning jars in boiling water. Next, submerge the fresh tomatoes in boiling water, followed by an ice bath. Peel and chop the tomatoes to your preferred size before blanching.
Fill jars with the chopped tomatoes, and add boiling water along with two tablespoons of vinegar and lemon juice to maintain acidity. Seal the jars tightly and process them in boiling water for 30-40 minutes, then store them in a cool, dry place.
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Dehydrating
One of the simplest methods to dehydrate tomatoes involves placing them on baking paper in the oven. Dehydrate them for about 1-3 hours. After drying, keep the tomatoes in an airtight container with a splash of olive oil to prevent clumping.
Salsa
Transforming tomatoes into salsa is a delicious way to preserve them. Customize your salsa by incorporating your favourite herbs and spices for a unique flavour profile.
Roasting
Roasting your tomato harvest to preserve it brings a tantalizing unforgettable flavor to your preserves. Tomatoes can be roasted with crushed garlic, herbs, and spices. Drizzle olive oil, and toss until evenly coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper then spread evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the tomatoes in the oven until the skins pop and start to brown, approximately 15 – 20 minutes. Canning and storing in a cool dry place is a pivotal part of roasting tomatoes. Roasted tomatoes can also be stored in a zip-lock bag and frozen.
Image: Pexels
Tomatoes are a rewarding crop that keeps on giving, making them a staple in many home gardens. With proper care, pruning, and preservation, you can extend the enjoyment of your harvest long beyond the growing season.
Whether you choose to can, dehydrate, make salsa, or roast your tomatoes, these methods will help you reduce waste and enjoy the rich flavours of homegrown tomatoes year-round. By preserving your tomatoes, you not only enhance their taste but also ensure a steady supply of this versatile fruit for all your culinary needs.
ALSO SEE: HOW TO DRY YOUR OWN HERBS
Images: Pexels
