How to Preserve Tomatoes for Up to Two Years Without Vinegar or Preservatives
If you’re looking for a simple, traditional way to enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes long after the harvest season ends, this method is a game-changer! With just ripe tomatoes, proper sterilization, and careful storage, you can preserve tomatoes naturally without adding vinegar, artificial preservatives, or unnecessary ingredients.
Perfect for soups, stews, pasta sauces, casseroles, and everyday cooking, these preserved tomatoes keep their rich flavor and vibrant color for months. Once you try this homemade technique, you’ll always want a few jars stocked in your pantry!
🛒 Ingredients
- 5 lbs (2.3 kg) ripe tomatoes
- Water (for blanching)
- Sterilized glass jars with lids
🥣 Instructions
- Wash the Tomatoes
- Thoroughly wash the tomatoes under cool running water and remove any damaged spots.
- Blanch and Peel
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato.
- Place tomatoes in boiling water for 30–60 seconds.
- Transfer immediately to ice water.
- Peel off the skins.
- Prepare the Tomatoes
- Leave them whole, halve them, or chop them depending on your preference.
- Remove tough cores if desired.
- Fill the Jars
- Pack the tomatoes tightly into sterilized jars.
- Press gently to release trapped air.
- Leave about ½ inch (1.25 cm) of headspace at the top.
- Seal and Process
- Wipe jar rims clean and attach lids.
- Place jars in a large water-bath canner or deep pot with water covering the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Boil for 85–90 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
- Cool and Store
- Remove jars carefully and let them cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
- Check that lids have sealed properly.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
 Storage Tips
- Always use clean, sterilized jars and lids.
- Discard any jar with signs of spoilage, bulging lids, or unusual odors.
- Properly processed and sealed jars can last for a very long time when stored correctly.
Nothing beats the flavor of home-preserved tomatoes ready whenever you need them! Save this recipe and enjoy garden-fresh taste all year long.