Canning Tomatoes

Give canning some fresh tomatoes a try this year. In the middle of winter, you can use the tomatoes to make spaghetti sauce, lasagna, chili, or other tomato-based meals for that fresh garden taste.

Quick facts:

• Select disease-free, preferably vine-ripened, firm tomatoes for canning. Avoid overripe tomatoes.
• To ensure safe acidity in whole, crushed or juiced tomatoes, add 2 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid per quart of tomatoes.
• Freezing is a safe, easy alternative to home canning. Frozen tomatoes and tomato products do not need added acid.