As markets across the country are filled with fresh tomatoes because of its season, there is need to learn how to preserve it to prevent wastages.
Tomatoes can be eaten fresh, used at cosmetics for face cleanser and used to prepare sauce but also, it can be preserved for future use.
There are many ways tomatoes can be preserved:
Blending and Freezing
Blending is an old means of food processing from the days of grinding stones to huge industrial grinding machines, Nigerians are very familiar with this old preservative method.
Blended tomatoes can be stored in small bags, placed inside working freezers where they can be allowed to become frozen.
This method not only preserves the quality of tomatoes but retains the taste and flavour of the tomato puree.
This preservative method can last for about 6 months or more beyond the tomato season.
Canning/Bottling
Tomatoes can be sliced and stored in cans or bottles for a long period. Tomato balls are sliced and stored in tight air jars or bottles with a sprinkle of lemon to prevent oxidation (loss of quality and taste) and then placed inside the fridge.
Drying
Tomatoes can be sliced and placed under the sun for a specific period until they are well-dried.
This method of preservation is common among people in rural communities with poor access to electricity and cold storage facilities.
Boiling
Boiling is a common method of tomato preservation. Large quantities can be blended and boiled until they are water-free.
This boiled puree can be stored in jars, or ziploc bags for as long as possible.
It’s time to make hay while the sun shines because soon tomato season will be over and we will begin to buy it expensively again but those who seize the opportunity to preserve some will enjoy the pleasure of it while it lasts.
