Canning pizza sauce at home is a great way to preserve the flavors of summer tomatoes and create a convenient pantry staple for quick and delicious homemade pizza nights. With a step-by-step guide, you can confidently and safely can your own pizza sauce to enjoy all year round.

Ingredients and Equipment:

To begin, gather the following ingredients and equipment:

– Fresh, ripe tomatoes
– Onions
– Garlic
– Olive oil
– Salt
– Sugar
– Dried oregano
– Dried basil
– Dried thyme
– Dried red pepper flakes
– Lemon juice
– Large stockpot
– Canning jars and lids
– Water bath canner
– Jar lifter
– Canning funnel
– Ladle
– Bubble remover tool

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by washing the tomatoes and removing any stems or blemishes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the tomatoes for 1-2 minutes. Remove the tomatoes and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel and chop the tomatoes, then set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large stockpot, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, sugar, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Simmer the sauce for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Canning Jars

While the sauce is simmering, prepare the canning jars and lids by washing them in hot, soapy water and sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Fill the Jars

Once the sauce has finished simmering and the jars are sterilized, carefully ladle the hot sauce into the jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Use a bubble remover tool to release any trapped air bubbles, then wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth.

Step 5: Seal the Jars

Place the lids on the jars, then screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight. Do not overtighten the bands. Once the jars are filled and sealed, place them in the water bath canner, ensuring that they are fully submerged in water.

Step 6: Process the Jars

Bring the water in the canner to a boil and process the jars for 35 minutes. Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you should hear the satisfying “pop” as the lids seal.

Step 7: Store and Enjoy

After the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it is firm and does not pop back, the jar is sealed. Any unsealed jars can be refrigerated and used within a few days. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place and enjoy your homemade pizza sauce for up to a year.

Following this step-by-step guide will allow you to safely can your own pizza sauce at home, preserving the delicious flavors of summer tomatoes for homemade pizzas all year round. Canning pizza sauce is a rewarding and practical way to stock your pantry with a versatile and flavorful staple.