Ingredients You Will Need
- Fresh ripe tomatoes (about 2 kg)
- Salt (to taste)
- Optional: Sugar, spices, or herbs
Step-by-Step Preparations
- Select Fresh Tomatoes:
Choose fully ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor. Varieties like Roma or beefsteak are excellent choices. - Wash the Tomatoes:
Rinse the tomatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. - Preparation:
Remove the stems and cut the tomatoes into quarters. This will make it easier to blend them and extract the juice. - Cooking the Tomatoes:
Place the cut tomatoes in a large pot. Heat over medium-high heat until they begin to boil. This helps break them down and releases their juices. - Blend the Mixture:
Once the tomatoes have softened (about 10-15 minutes), use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture in batches to a standard blender. - Straining (Optional):
For a smoother juice, pass the blended mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. - Season to Taste:
Add salt to enhance the flavor. If desired, you can also add sugar for sweetness or spices like black pepper, paprika, or fresh basil for a unique twist. - Bottle and Store:
Pour the fresh tomato juice into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. Homemade tomato juice is best consumed within a week.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your homemade tomato juice on its own or use it as a base for soups, sauces, or cocktails like Bloody Mary. It can also be a refreshing addition to your breakfast or lunch.
With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy the rich taste and health benefits of fresh tomato juice made right in your kitchen. Cheers to delicious homemade beverages!