Tomato Juice Recipe

Tomato Juice Recipe

Tomato Juice Recipe Here’s a detailed homemade tomato juice recipe that is fresh, flavorful, and free from preservatives.

Tomato Juice Recipe

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Tomato Juice Recipe Homemade Tomato Juice Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 kg (4.5 lbs) ripe tomatoes (Roma, Plum, or Beefsteak work best)
• 1 medium onion (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 1 medium carrot (optional, for natural sweetness)
• 1 celery stalk (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ½ teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for preservation and tangy flavor)
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly under running water.
2. Remove the stems and cut out any blemishes or bad spots.
3. Chop the tomatoes into quarters for easy cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes

1. Place the chopped tomatoes into a large pot.
2. If using onion, garlic, carrot, or celery, chop them finely and add them to the pot.
3. Cook over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. As the tomatoes cook, they will release their juices. Use a spoon to mash them slightly to help the process.

Step 3: Blend and Strain

1. Once the tomatoes and vegetables are soft, turn off the heat.
2. Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or using an immersion blender in the pot.
3. Blend until smooth.
4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove seeds and skins. Use a spoon to press out as much liquid as possible.

Step 4: Season and Adjust Flavor

1. Return the strained juice to the pot and heat it on low.
2. Add salt, black pepper, sugar, paprika, and lemon juice. Stir well.
3. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Store and Serve

1. Pour the juice into sterilized glass bottles or jars while still hot.
2. Allow it to cool at room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Serve chilled or warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Optional: Canning for Long-Term Storage

• Pour the hot juice into sterilized canning jars, leaving ½ inch headspace.
• Seal with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes.
• Let cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

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Serving Suggestions:

✔️ Enjoy as a refreshing drink.
✔️ Use as a base for soups, stews, or sauces.
✔️ Add to cocktails like a Bloody Mary.

Would you like any variations or specific tips for storage? 😊

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