Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Soup
- Wash the tomatoes thoroughly, remove the cores, and chop them into quarters.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the broth, fresh basil leaves, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a countertop blender in batches.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
Sterilizing the Jars
- Fill the pressure canner with the recommended amount of water (usually 2–3 inches) and start heating.
- Wash jars, lids, and bands in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly. Sterilize jars in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Keep jars warm until ready to use.
Filling the Jars
- Add 1 tbsp of bottled lemon juice per pint jar to ensure safe acidity.
- Pour the hot soup into the jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
- Run a non-metallic utensil around the inside of the jar to release trapped air.
- Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp towel.
- Seal the jars with lids and screw the bands on until fingertip-tight.
Processing the Jars
- Place jars in the pressure canner using a jar lifter.
- Lock the lid, bring the canner to pressure, and process according to altitude.
- For pint jars, process for 20 minutes at 10 PSI; for quart jars, process for 25 minutes at 10 PSI.
- Allow pressure to return to zero naturally, then remove jars and cool on a towel-lined surface for 12–24 hours.
Checking and Storing
- Press the center of each lid to check if it has sealed properly.
- Label jars with the date and store in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
Notes
Ensure proper acidity by adding lemon juice or citric acid for canning. Avoid water bath canning for low-acid foods. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
