Complete Gardening
As the vibrant colors of fall start to paint the landscape, preserving the bounty of summer becomes a joyful task.
Freezing tomatoes is not only an excellent way to extend their shelf life, but it also ensures you can enjoy their fresh taste all throughout the cooler months.
In this guide, we will walk you through the best practices for freezing tomatoes, ensuring they remain delicious and versatile for your fall meals.
1. Selecting the Right Tomatoes
Choose firm, ripe tomatoes free from bruises and blemishes. Roma or plum varieties are ideal due to their low moisture content, which helps them freeze better. Avoid overripe tomatoes as they may not hold their texture well.
2. Cleaning and Preparing
Thoroughly wash the tomatoes under cool, running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Pat them dry with a clean cloth to ensure no moisture remains, as this can cause freezer burn.
3. Peeling with Ease
To peel tomatoes effortlessly, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then plunge them into ice water. The skin will slide right off, making the tomatoes ready for freezing.
4. Removing Seeds and Core
Cut the tomatoes in half and gently squeeze out the seeds. Remove the core to ensure a smooth texture when thawed. This step is optional but recommended for sauces and soups.
5. Dicing and Slicing
Depending on your planned use, dice or slice the tomatoes. Diced tomatoes are perfect for stews, while slices are great for sandwiches or burgers.
6. Flash Freezing Technique
Arrange the prepared tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for a few hours until solid. This prevents them from sticking together in storage.
7. Packing for Storage
Transfer the frozen tomatoes into airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and label with the date for easy tracking.
8. Freezing Tomato Puree
For a versatile ingredient, blend peeled and cored tomatoes into a puree. Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. This allows easy portioning for soups and sauces.
9. Creating Tomato Paste
Simmer pureed tomatoes until thickened to create a homemade tomato paste. Freeze in small containers or ice cube trays for convenient use.
10. Freezing Whole Tomatoes
If you prefer minimal preparation, freeze whole tomatoes. Simply wash, dry, and flash-freeze them. They’re great for recipes where they will be cooked down.
11. Thawing and Using
To use frozen tomatoes, allow them to thaw at room temperature. They’re perfect for cooked dishes like sauces and stews, as freezing alters their texture.
12. Incorporating into Fall Recipes
Frozen tomatoes are perfect for hearty fall recipes. Use them in soups, stews, or casseroles to enjoy the taste of summer even in the cooler months.