Canning pizza sauce is a great way to preserve the flavors of summer and enjoy delicious homemade pizza all year round. The art of canning pizza sauce involves using fresh, ripe tomatoes, a variety of herbs and spices, and a little bit of time and patience.
The first step in canning pizza sauce is to gather your ingredients. You will need fresh, ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, and thyme. You can also add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. It’s best to use fresh, locally grown produce for the best flavor in your pizza sauce.
Once you have gathered all of your ingredients, it’s time to start making your pizza sauce. Start by washing and coring your tomatoes, then chop them up and place them in a large pot. Add in your onions and garlic, along with your herbs and spices. Let the mixture simmer for a few hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
After your sauce has simmered and the flavors have melded together, it’s time to prepare your canning jars. Wash and sterilize your canning jars and lids, then fill them with your hot pizza sauce, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, then seal them with the lids and rings.
Once your jars are prepared, it’s time to process them in a water bath canner. Place your filled jars in the canner, making sure they are completely submerged in the water. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for the specified amount of time, typically around 40 minutes. Once they are finished processing, carefully remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel or cooling rack.
Once your jars are cool, check the seals to make sure they are tight and secure. You can store your canned pizza sauce in a cool, dark place for up to a year. When you’re ready to use your sauce, simply open a jar and use it as a base for your homemade pizzas.
Canning pizza sauce is a great way to preserve the flavors of summer and enjoy delicious homemade pizza all year round. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a flavorful and versatile sauce that will be a hit with your friends and family. So why not give it a try and start canning your own pizza sauce today?