Introduction
Imagine the rich, tangy aroma of a freshly opened jar of homemade pizza sauce, ready to transform any dough into a gourmet pizza. That’s exactly what you get with this “Homemade Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe.” As a food reviewer who has had the pleasure of tasting many pizza sauces, I can assure you that this recipe not only preserves the freshness of summer tomatoes but also brings a piece of Italy right into your kitchen. This guide will walk you through the process of making and canning your pizza sauce, ensuring you have this essential ingredient at your fingertips whenever the pizza craving strikes.
What is Pizza Sauce Canning?
Pizza sauce canning involves cooking, blending, and preserving your own pizza sauce using a water bath canning method. This technique ensures the sauce remains preserved for months, retaining its flavor and freshness. It’s a fantastic way to make use of a bumper crop of tomatoes from your garden or take advantage of seasonal produce sales.
Homemade Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preparation Time
30 minutes - Cooking Time
2 hours - Serves
4 adults - Difficulty
Intermediate
Ingredients
- 10 pounds of ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons basil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut the acidity)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice per jar (for canning safety)
Equipment Required
- Large pot
- Food mill or blender
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel and ladle
- Water bath canner
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
- Begin by washing and coring the tomatoes. Boil them in a large pot for about 1 minute or until the skins start to crack. Then, plunge them into ice water. Peel off the skins, and use a food mill or blender to puree the tomatoes.
- Step 2: Cook the Sauce
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until translucent. Add the tomato puree, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 2 hours or until it thickens to your liking.
- Step 3: Can the Sauce
- Sterilize your jars and lids. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to each jar to ensure acidity levels are safe for canning. Ladle the hot sauce into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims, apply the lids and bands, and process in a water bath canner for 35 minutes.
Pro Tips for Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe
- For a smoother sauce, peel and seed your tomatoes before cooking.
- Adjust herbs and seasonings to match your taste preferences.
- Always ensure your jars are sterilized to prevent bacterial growth.
Why You Will Love Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe
This pizza sauce recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:
- Flavorful: Homemade sauce beats store-bought every time.
- Preservative-Free: Know exactly what’s in your sauce.
- Convenience: Having jars of this sauce in your pantry means you’re always ready for pizza night.
How to Eat Pizza Sauce Canning
Spread this sauce generously over your pizza dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake. It’s also perfect for dipping breadsticks or as a base for pasta dishes.
Conclusion
This “Homemade Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe” is a labor of love that pays off with every bite of pizza you enjoy. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients in your sauce, but it also offers a satisfying, tangy base for a variety of dishes. If you appreciate this recipe, please share it with fellow home cooks and pizza lovers. Let’s spread the joy of homemade pizza sauce to kitchens everywhere!
Whether you’re an experienced home canner or trying it for the first time, this pizza sauce recipe is a delightful project that yields delicious results. Enjoy the process and the pizza parties that will surely follow!
You Can Also Read:- Asian Zing Sauce Recipe (
FAQ On Pizza Sauce Canning Recipe
1. What is pizza sauce canning?
Pizza sauce canning is the process of making pizza sauce from scratch and preserving it by canning, allowing it to be stored for extended periods.
2. Why should I can my own pizza sauce?
Canning your own pizza sauce allows you to use fresh ingredients, avoid preservatives and additives, and customize the flavor to your liking.
3. How long does homemade canned pizza sauce last?
When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, homemade pizza sauce can last for up to a year.
4. Do I need special equipment for canning pizza sauce?
Yes, you’ll need a water bath canner, canning jars with lids and bands, a canning funnel, and a ladle.
5. Can I use any type of tomato for this sauce?
While you can use any type of tomato, plum or Roma tomatoes are recommended for their lower water content and higher flesh to juice ratio, which makes for a thicker sauce.
6. How do I thicken my pizza sauce?
Simmer the sauce uncovered to allow water to evaporate and the sauce to thicken. Cooking time can be adjusted based on desired thickness.
7. Can I add meat to my pizza sauce before canning?
It is not recommended to add meat to the sauce before canning due to different canning requirements for meats. Add meat when preparing your pizza for consumption.
8. Is lemon juice necessary for canning pizza sauce?
Yes, lemon juice is added to ensure the sauce has a safe acidity level for canning and long-term storage.
9. Can I skip adding sugar?
Yes, sugar is optional and is primarily used to cut the acidity of the tomatoes. You can adjust the amount or omit it based on personal preference.
10. Can I adjust the herbs and spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amounts or add other herbs and spices to suit your taste.
11. How much sauce does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 6 to 8 pint jars of sauce, depending on how much you reduce the sauce.
12. Can I process the sauce using a pressure canner?
While this recipe is designed for water bath canning, you can use a pressure canner following the manufacturer’s instructions for tomato products.
13. How do I know if my sauce has gone bad?
If the lid is bulging, the sauce has an off smell, or there is visible mold, the sauce should not be consumed.
14. Can I reuse canning lids?
It’s not recommended to reuse lids for canning, as the seal may not be effective a second time. Bands, however, can be reused.
15. How do I store canned pizza sauce?
Store in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cellar. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes.
16. What do I do if my jars don’t seal?
If jars fail to seal, you can reprocess the sauce within 24 hours using new lids, or refrigerate and use the sauce within a week.
17. Can I make a chunky pizza sauce?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of blending or mashing to leave more tomato chunks in your sauce.
18. How do I sterilize jars?
Boil jars and lids in water for at least 10 minutes, then keep them hot until ready to use.
19. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure your canner is large enough to process the increased number of jars in a single batch.
20. Can this sauce be frozen instead of canned?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen in suitable containers, leaving some space for expansion.
21. What’s the best way to peel tomatoes?
Blanch them in boiling water for about a minute, then plunge into ice water. The skins should slip off easily.
22. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, bottled lemon juice is actually recommended over fresh for its consistent acidity.
23. How do I adjust for altitude?
Canning times may need to be adjusted when canning at altitudes above 1,000 feet. Refer to a canning guide for specific adjustments.
24. Can I use this sauce for pasta?
Absolutely! This versatile sauce can be used for pasta, lasagna, and other Italian dishes.
25. How much headspace should I leave in the jars?
Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
26. Can I use a blender instead of a food mill?
Yes, a blender or food processor works well for puréeing the tomatoes. A food mill helps remove seeds and skins if you prefer a smoother sauce.
27. What if my sauce seems too watery?
Continue simmering until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember, it will thicken slightly upon cooling.
28. Can I add bell peppers or other vegetables?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables can be added. Just be mindful of the added moisture.
29. How do I fix a sauce that’s too acidic?
Adding a bit more sugar can help balance too much acidity. Taste and adjust accordingly.
30. Can I use this sauce right away?
Yes, if you can’t wait to use your sauce, feel free to enjoy it immediately on your pizza or in other dishes!
