What You’ll Need:
- Jars with lids
- Cherry tomatoes
- Boiling water
- White vinegar
- Sea salt
- Garlic cloves (optional)
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Jars
Start by washing the jars, lids, and bands in warm soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and leave them to air dry. It’s essential to work with clean and sterilized jars to prevent any contamination that could spoil your preserved cherry tomatoes.
Step 2: Select and Prep Your Cherry Tomatoes
Choose only the freshest and unblemished cherry tomatoes for preserving. Wash them gently in cool water, removing any dirt or debris. Trim the stems if desired, but it’s not necessary. Leave them whole or prick them a few times with a fork to allow the preservation liquid to penetrate and infuse flavor into the tomatoes.
Step 3: Create the Preservation Liquid
In a large pot, combine equal parts boiling water and white vinegar. For every 4 cups of liquid, add 1 tablespoon of sea salt. You can also add garlic cloves or fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, for additional flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt completely.
Step 4: Pack the Jars
Pack the clean jars tightly with the prepared cherry tomatoes. You can layer the tomatoes with herbs or garlic cloves if desired. Leave about a 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Step 5: Pour the Preservation Liquid
Carefully pour the hot preservation liquid into each jar, covering the tomatoes completely while maintaining the 1/2 inch headspace. Use a non-metallic utensil to remove any air bubbles trapped within the jar.
Step 6: Seal the Jars
Wipe the jar rims using a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any spills or residue. Place the lids on the jars, ensuring they are tightly sealed. This will ensure a proper vacuum seal during the preservation process.
Step 7: Process the Jars
Submerge the sealed jars in a boiling water bath. Ensure the jars are completely covered with water and avoid placing them directly on the bottom of the pot to prevent breakage. Process the jars for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, adjusting the time depending on your altitude.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Once the jars have been processed, carefully remove them from the water bath using tongs or a jar lifter. Place the jars on a clean towel and let them cool at room temperature. As they cool, you may hear the satisfying “pop” sound of the jars sealing. After cooling, check the lids to ensure they have tightly sealed. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Preserving cherry tomatoes in jars is a fantastic way to savor the taste of summer all year long. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the bright and flavorful cherry tomatoes whenever you desire. So, grab your jars and get started on preserving your tomato bounty today!