Tomato passata is a cherished homemade preserve that has been passed down through generations, especially in regions where its use is prevalent in everyday cooking.

With its unmistakable Mediterranean taste, it has become a staple in many kitchens. This versatile ingredient is often used in sauces, soups, and various other dishes.

While there are multiple ways to make passata, the process is simple and results in a rich, velvety, and slightly sweet preserve that captures the essence of fresh tomatoes. If you’ve ever wondered how to create this flavorful preserve at home, the process is easier than you might think!

Recipes to Try with Tomato Passata

Once you have your homemade passata ready, it can be used in various recipes, such as:

- Eggs with tomatoes

- Tomato soup

Ingredients for 750g of Passata

- 2 kg of ripe tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)

- Fresh basil (to taste)

- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-Step Preparation

To begin preparing the passata, start by inspecting each tomato to ensure they are free from any damage, such as spots or dents. Wash them thoroughly, then remove the stems. Cut each tomato in half lengthwise and extract the seeds by gently squeezing the tomato. This step helps create a thicker passata, but if you're making a large batch, you can opt to leave the seeds intact.

After preparing the tomatoes, place them in a large casserole and allow them to soften over low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the tomatoes are soft, add salt to taste and stir once more. To create the passata, pass the softened tomatoes through a food mill using a fine to medium mesh. Continue this process, collecting the strained passata in a bowl. Your passata is now ready for use or storage.

Pasteurization: How to Store Tomato Passata

If you prefer to store the passata for later use, follow these steps for pasteurization:

- Start with sterilized jars. If your jars are not pre-sterilized, boil them to sterilize as directed by official guidelines.

- Pour the hot passata into the jars, leaving about 2-3 cm of space from the top. For added flavor, you can add a few fresh basil leaves.

- Seal the jars tightly.

- Place the jars in a large casserole with hot water and let them boil. The boiling time varies based on the jar size:

- For 250g jars, boil for 30 minutes.

- For 500g jars, boil for 35 minutes.

- For 1 kg jars, boil for 40 minutes.

- Once done, carefully remove the jars from the water and allow them to cool. Ensure that a vacuum seal has formed before storing the jars in your pantry.

Alternatively, a cold bottling method can be used. In this method, fill sterilized jars with cold passata, place them in a casserole of water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, follow the same time guidelines for pasteurization.

Storage Tips for Tomato Passata

Tomato passata can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, freezing is an option. If you use the pasteurization method, the jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 3 months. However, it is recommended not to store passata beyond this time frame as home pasteurization doesn't guarantee 100% safety.

Extra Tip

The leftover tomato water can be repurposed to soak dry bread or make delicious bruschetta. It’s a fantastic way to reduce waste while adding extra flavor to your dishes.

Choosing the Best Tomatoes for Passata

For the best results, choose firm, ripe, and unbruised tomatoes. The ideal time to purchase them is during the summer months, particularly from July to August. You can use a variety of tomatoes, including round, plum, or smaller types like datterino or prunill.

If you prefer a thicker passata, let it cook down on the stove until it reaches the desired consistency before bottling or pasteurizing.

Important Health Considerations

When making homemade preserves, it’s crucial to follow proper food safety guidelines to minimize health risks. Homemade preservation doesn’t offer the same level of food safety as commercially produced products.

For the safest preservation practices, always refer to official health recommendations. Keep in mind that while homemade passata is delicious, it is important to adhere to recommended safety measures for long-term storage.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy the taste of summer in a jar all year round with your homemade tomato passata!