Best Easy Kerr Canning Tomato Soup Recipe

If you are a fan of tomato soup, then you will love this easy Kerr canning tomato soup recipe. It is a simple and delicious way to preserve the flavors of fresh tomatoes and enjoy them all year round. With just a few ingredients and some basic canning techniques, you can create a batch of tomato soup that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. So, let’s dive into the recipe and get started!

Ingredients:
– 10 pounds of ripe tomatoes
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:
1. Start by washing the tomatoes and removing any stems or blemishes. Cut them into quarters and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the quartered tomatoes to the pot and stir well. Cover and let them cook for about 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have become soft and juicy.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the cooked tomatoes until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter.
5. Return the pureed tomatoes to the pot and add the salt, black pepper, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and create a rich and flavorful soup.
7. While the soup is simmering, prepare your canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water to ensure they are clean and ready for use.
8. Ladle the hot tomato soup into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth and place the lids on top. Screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
9. Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop.
10. Once the jars have cooled, check the lids for a proper seal. The lids should be slightly concave and should not move when pressed in the center. Any jars that did not seal properly should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
11. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place and enjoy the tomato soup throughout the year. It can be enjoyed as is or used as a base for other recipes like pasta sauce or chili.

Now that you have the recipe, let’s answer some common questions about canning tomato soup:

1. Can I use any type of tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of tomatoes for this recipe. However, using ripe and flavorful tomatoes will result in a more delicious soup.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrients to the soup.

3. How long does the canned tomato soup last?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, the canned tomato soup can last for up to a year.

4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Just keep in mind that the flavor intensity may vary, so adjust accordingly.

5. Can I skip the canning process and store the soup in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to a week if you prefer not to can it.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double or even triple the recipe if you have a large quantity of tomatoes to use.

7. Can I use this recipe for other types of soups?
Absolutely! This basic tomato soup recipe can be used as a base for other soups. Just add additional ingredients like beans, vegetables, or pasta to create your desired soup.

8. Can I freeze the tomato soup instead of canning it?
Yes, you can freeze the tomato soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. Just make sure to leave some headspace for expansion when freezing.

9. Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

Now that you have all the information, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade tomato soup any time you crave it!