Homemade Roasted Tomato Spaghetti Sauce Canning Recipe

If you’re a fan of flavorful pasta dishes and love the idea of preserving the taste of summer, this homemade roasted tomato spaghetti sauce is the perfect recipe for you! Not only does it feature the rich and savory taste of roasted tomatoes, but it’s also designed for canning, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors all year round. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating your own batch of delicious spaghetti sauce.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Tomato Sauce:

• 10 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or beefsteak tomatoes work best)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for added depth)

For Canning:

• Clean, sterilized glass jars with lids
• Large pot for boiling water
• Canning funnel (optional for ease)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Tomatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can chop them into smaller pieces.
3. Place the tomato halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for approximately 30-40 minutes until the tomatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Blending the Ingredients

1. Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Transfer the roasted tomatoes to the pot with sautéed onions and garlic.
3. Add sugar, oregano, basil, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and balsamic vinegar to the mixture.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency, or you can transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender.

Step 4: Simmering the Sauce

1. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer on the stove. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to reduce the sauce and enhances the flavors.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your taste.

Step 5: Canning the Sauce

1. While the sauce simmers, prepare your canning supplies. Sterilize your jars by boiling them in water or running them through the dishwasher.
2. Once the sauce is ready, use the canning funnel to fill the sterilized jars with the hot sauce, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
3. Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean cloth to ensure a proper seal, then place the lids on the jars and screw on the metal rings until snug.

Step 6: Processing the Jars

1. Process your jars in a boiling water bath for about 35-40 minutes. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least an inch.
2. After processing, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water and allow them to cool on a clean towel or cooling rack.
3. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If it pops back, it hasn’t sealed properly. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and use the sauce within a week.

Storing and Enjoying

Once your jars are sealed and cooled, label them with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Your delicious homemade roasted tomato spaghetti sauce can last up to a year when stored properly.

When you’re ready to enjoy the sauce, simply open a jar, and heat it on the stove. Serve over your favorite pasta, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for a truly delightful meal.

Conclusion

Making your own roasted tomato spaghetti sauce and canning it is a rewarding endeavor that captures the essence of garden-fresh tomatoes. This recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to save those summer flavors for the colder months ahead. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer all year long!