To safely can Ball tomato soup, start with inspection of all cans and seals for integrity and expiration dates, then pre-measure spices and salt. Sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes and broth, simmer to refine flavors, then adjust seasoning. Use a pressure canner, jar lifter, and heat-safe jars with lids, filling with a wide-mouthed funnel and removing bubbles. Proper processing guarantees flavor, nutrition, and safety, with detailed steps awaiting you.
Ingredients and Quantity
To make Ball Tomato Soup, gather the following ingredients and quantities: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth, 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity), 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste), 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk for richness. You’ll evaluate tomato varieties for flavor, acidity, and texture before canning. Table below illustrates each choice and its impact on outcomes. table
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Tomato varieties | Flavor, acidity, thickening |
| Canning techniques | Safety, shelf stability |
Preparations
Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment, ensuring each item is measured and ready for use. You’ll focus on steady preparation methods and deliberate ingredient sourcing to set a reliable foundation for canning. Plan your steps to minimize pauses and preserve tomato quality.
1) Inspect cans, labels, and sealers for integrity and expiration dates.
2) Pre-measure spices, salt, and sugar, aligning amounts with your target flavor profile.
3) Source ripe tomatoes from trusted suppliers, prioritizing freshness and consistent supply.
During this phase, avoid distractions and document any substitutions. Maintain clean surfaces and verify heating sources are stable. Track temperatures and times accurately to support safe processing. This approach emphasizes evidence-based preparation methods and intentional ingredient sourcing, ensuring you’re ready for the subsequent steps without unnecessary delay or clutter.
Kitchen tools or Kitchenware Required
For this phase, assemble a focused set of kitchen tools and cookware that support precise, safe tomato canning. You’ll rely on sturdy basics, not extras, to maintain consistency and safety throughout processing. Key items include a reliable pressure canner, accurate dial or digital thermometer, heat-safe canning jars with lids, a jar lifter, tongs, a wide-mouthed funnel, a bubble remover, and a magnetic wand. You’ll also want a calibrated kitchen scale, a timer, and a clean rack for cooling. Keep your workspace organized with labeled bins for canning supplies.
| Tools | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pressure canner | Safe processing at required pressures |
| Jar lifter | Safe handling of hot jars |
How to Cook
- Measure and wash all ingredients thoroughly.
- Preheat your equipment as directed.
- Keep a clean, organized workstation to prevent cross-contamination.
- Simmer tomatoes gently to refine cooking techniques.
- Respect acid balance to ensure safety.
- Monitor temperature to maintain soup clarity and safety.
- Pair onion, garlic, and basil with a touch of cream or olive oil to enhance flavor without overpowering acidity.
- Strain seeds if desired for a smoother texture.
- Adjust salt in increments to taste.
- Test for pectin-like viscosity before processing.
- Keep detailed notes for reproducibility.
- Rely on evidence-based timings.
- Maintain a calm, steady tempo throughout the process.
- This approach respects your freedom to choose nuances while ensuring safe, dependable results.
How to Serve
To serve ball tomato soup, start with a clean, warm bowl and consider the guest’s preferences. You’ll present a consistent portion, then offer a brief, factual explanation of heat level. Serve at a comfortable temperature, typically 140–165°F (60–74°C), to preserve aroma without scorching the palate. Pair with neutral bread or crisp crackers to balance acidity. For serving suggestions, place a small ladle on the side to control portions and reduce settling. Garnish ideas should be simple and intentional: a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of finely chopped herbs, or a light speck of grated cheese, applied just before tasting. Keep garnishes subtle to maintain the soup’s smooth texture and clean tomato-forward profile.
Tips
Consider keeping the soup’s tomato-forward flavor intact by using high-quality canned tomatoes or ripe fresh ones, and avoid over-thinking salt; taste as you go and calibrate with a light hand. Safety precautions and precise canning techniques matter as you work.
Keep tomato-forward flavor with quality tomatoes, salt lightly, and taste as you go. Safety and precise canning matter.
- Sanitize all equipment thoroughly, including jars, lids, and utensils, to minimize contamination risk.
- Use tested processing times for your altitude and jar size, and verify canning room temperature before reusing any jars or rings.
- Label with date and batch notes, documenting tomato variety, acidity, and tested pH if available to support consistent results.
Note how temperature control influences texture and safety; document observations for future canning sessions.
Food Value and Benefit
Tomato soup offers a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meals, providing a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. This prepared dish is rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and bioactive compounds such as lycopene, which contribute to overall health.
Benefits of eating tomato soup:
- Supports heart health through potassium and fiber content
- Boosts immune function with vitamin C
- Provides antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against certain chronic diseases
- Low in calories, making it suitable for weight management
- Contains essential minerals that aid in maintaining electrolyte balance
Key vitamins and minerals in tomato soup:
- Vitamin C: supports immune health and skin integrity
- Potassium: helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance
- Fiber: promotes digestive health
- Lycopene: a powerful antioxidant with potential protective effects against some cancers and cardiovascular diseases
Choosing tomato soup made from canned tomatoes with minimal added sugars or salt ensures retention of these nutrients. Opt for products in BPA-free cans or glass jars to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Ball Tomato Soup Last Once Opened?
Opening with a nod to caution, you should use the tomato soup within 3–4 days after opening. Storage tips matter: refrigerate promptly, keep sealed, and discard if signs of spoilage appear; shelf life may vary, prioritize safety.
Can I Freeze Ball-Canned Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze ball-canned tomato soup. For best results, use freezing methods that preserve texture; chill first, portion into airtight containers, and leave headspace. Expect slight texture changes; thaw slowly and stir to maintain soup texture.
Is Pressure Canning Required for Safety?
You should follow pressure canning for safety guidelines when preserving tomato soup; it’s required to guarantee low-acid risk is controlled. This method prevents spoilage, relies on tested times, pressures, and seals to protect your freedom to safely store.
What Is the Ideal Altitude for Canning?
You should adjust for altitude; aim for altitude adjustments guidelines to guarantee safe processing. Use precise, evidence-based canning techniques, adjusting processing times as needed. With freedom to adapt, follow tested charts and monitor pressure and temperature closely.
Are Sugar or Salt Essential in the Recipe?
Sugar and salt aren’t essential in Ball tomato soup canning; salt adds flavor but isn’t required for safety, and sugar isn’t needed for preservation. If you want alternatives, consider sugar alternatives or salt substitutes for taste without compromising safety.
