With the convenience of an Instant Pot, canning tomatoes becomes a simpler and more efficient process. Whether you have a surplus of tomatoes from your garden or want to take advantage of a great deal at the local market, this informative article will guide you through the step-by-step process of canning tomatoes using your Instant Pot.
Preserving the vibrant flavors of summer tomatoes can be a rewarding experience, and with the help of an Instant Pot, it becomes even more convenient for regular home cooks.
Canning tomatoes allows you to enjoy the taste of freshly harvested tomatoes all year round, adding depth to your soups, sauces, and other culinary creations.
In this article we will guide you through the step-by-step process of canning tomatoes using your Instant Pot.
With proper techniques and a little effort, you’ll soon become adept at preserving the essence of ripe tomatoes and savoring their goodness throughout the seasons.
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into the canning process, ensure you have all the necessary supplies.
This includes:
- fresh tomatoes
- canning jars
- canning lids
- bands
- a jar lifter
- a canning funnel
- a ladel
- large pot for blanching
- sharp knife
- cutting board
- cleaning kitchen towel
- Instant pot
Preparing the Tomatoes
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove any blemishes or bruises.
Blanch the tomatoes by boiling them for about 30 seconds and then transferring them to an ice bath. This process will help loosen the skins, making them easier to peel.
Peeling and Deseeding
Once the tomatoes have cooled, gently peel off the skins using a sharp knife or your fingers.
Cut the tomatoes in half horizontally and scoop out the seeds and excess juice, as they can affect the quality of the canned tomatoes.
Sterilize the Jars
Ensure your canning jars, lids, and bands are sterilized.
You can do this by running them through a dishwasher cycle or submerging them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
Keep the jars warm until they are ready to be filled.
Filling the Jars
Using a canning funnel, carefully pack the prepared tomatoes into the sterilized jars, leaving a 1/2-inch headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by gently running a utensil along the sides of the jar. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
Processing in the Instant Pot
Place the filled jars in the Instant Pot on a trivet or a canning rack.
Add water to the Instant Pot, ensuring it covers the jars by about 1 inch.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up the canning function on your specific model.
Sealing and Cooling
Once the canning process is complete, carefully remove the jars from the Instant Pot using a jar lifter and place them on a kitchen towel.
Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
During this time, you’ll hear the satisfying “pop” sound as the lids seal.
Testing the Seal and Storage
After cooling, check the seals by pressing the center of each lid. I
f it is firm and does not flex, the seal is successful.
Label the jars with the canning date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed and stored canned tomatoes can be enjoyed for up to a year.
Canning tomatoes in your Instant Pot is a wonderful way to capture the essence of fresh tomatoes and extend their shelf life.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently preserve your tomato harvest and enhance your culinary creations throughout the year.
Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your homemade canned tomatoes will bring the taste of summer to your kitchen, no matter the season.
