Recipe for Tomato Soup to Can: Easy Homemade Guide

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup, especially when it’s made from scratch and perfectly canned for later enjoyment. Whether you’re stocking up your pantry for busy weeknights or preparing homemade gifts for loved ones, this classic tomato soup recipe is a must-have.

It captures the rich, vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes combined with a delicate balance of herbs and spices. Canning your own soup not only preserves freshness but also allows you to control the ingredients, making it healthier and free of preservatives.

Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of opening a jar of your own homemade soup to warm you up on a chilly day.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make a delicious tomato soup that’s ideal for canning. We’ll cover everything from selecting the best tomatoes to the canning process itself.

If you’re new to canning or want to perfect your skills, this recipe will walk you through each step to ensure safety, flavor, and long-lasting freshness. Let’s dive into the comforting world of tomato soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tomato soup recipe is a timeless classic that offers a perfect blend of fresh, sweet, and tangy tomato flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find easily or grow in your own garden.

The soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.

What sets this recipe apart is its suitability for canning. It’s designed to maintain flavor and texture even after long storage, so you can enjoy your favorite soup any time of year.

The method is straightforward and designed to ensure food safety during the canning process, so you can preserve your bounty with confidence.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe offers flexibility to customize flavors and textures, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 10 cups fresh ripe tomatoes (about 5 pounds), washed and quartered
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• 2 teaspoons dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for canning acidity)

Equipment

• Large stockpot or soup pot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Large spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Water bath canner or large pot with rack
• Glass canning jars (pint or quart size), lids, and bands
• Jar lifter and funnel
• Clean kitchen towels
• Cutting board and knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the fresh tomatoes thoroughly. Remove stems and any blemishes. Quarter the tomatoes and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics: In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add tomatoes and herbs: Add the quartered tomatoes to the pot along with dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing tomatoes to break down and flavors to meld.
5. Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until creamy. Return the soup to the pot.
6. Adjust seasoning and acidity: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper as needed. Stir in the lemon juice to ensure proper acidity for safe canning.
7. Sterilize jars and lids: While the soup simmers, sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Keep jars warm until you’re ready to fill them.
8. Fill jars with soup: Using a funnel and ladle, pour the hot soup into the warm jars, leaving about 1-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
9. Seal jars: Place the sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
10. Process in water bath: Place the filled jars into the water bath canner, ensuring they are fully submerged with at least 1-2 inches of water above the tops. Bring to a boil and process pint jars for 35 minutes, quart jars for 40 minutes.
11. Cool and store: Carefully remove jars using a jar lifter and set them on a clean towel. Let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals, label, and store in a cool, dark place.

Tips & Variations

“Always ensure your jars and lids are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage and guarantee a safe seal.”

If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and stir in the unblended half before canning.

For a richer flavor, add a splash of coconut milk or cream after opening the jar (do not add dairy before canning).

You can experiment with herbs by adding thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for unique twists.

Remember, acidity is crucial in canning tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes that are not very acidic, adding lemon juice as instructed is essential for safety.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This tomato soup is wonderfully versatile. Serve it piping hot with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty baguette for a classic pairing.

It also works beautifully as a base for pasta sauces or as a flavorful braising liquid for vegetables.

For a light lunch, pair the soup with a fresh salad such as the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Need another comforting soup to enjoy? Try the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a creamy alternative.

Conclusion

Canning your own tomato soup is a rewarding and practical way to enjoy fresh flavors year-round. This recipe balances tradition with safety, ensuring your jars are full of delicious, wholesome soup that is ready whenever you need it.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a nourishing meal that’s perfect for busy days, cozy nights, or sharing with friends and family.

Beyond the convenience, homemade canned tomato soup offers control over what goes into your food, letting you avoid unnecessary additives while boosting nutrition. Plus, the process itself is a wonderful way to connect with seasonal produce and traditional cooking methods.

Give this recipe a try and embrace the joy of homemade soup in your pantry.

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