Tomato juice is a refreshing and nutritious drink that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for soups, cocktails, and marinades. While fresh tomatoes are always a great option, sometimes it’s more convenient to use canned tomatoes to make tomato juice. In this quick and easy guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making tomato juice from canned tomatoes, ensuring that you get the most out of this versatile ingredient.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, let’s gather the necessary ingredients and equipment to make tomato juice from canned tomatoes. You will need the following:
Ingredients:
– 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 small onion
– 2 cloves of garlic
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs such as basil or parsley for added flavor
Equipment:
– Blender or food processor
– Medium-sized pot
– Strainer or cheesecloth
– Airtight containers for storing the juice
The Process
Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making tomato juice from canned tomatoes:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Begin by draining the liquid from the canned tomatoes. You can either discard the liquid or save it for other uses, such as adding it to sauces or soups. Once drained, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl.
Step 2: Chop the Onion and Garlic
Next, peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves. These aromatics will add depth of flavor to your tomato juice.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat a splash of olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant. Then, add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it brown or burn.
Step 4: Blend the Tomatoes
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your blender or food processor. Add the drained canned tomatoes and any desired herbs, such as basil or parsley, for added freshness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Secure the lid on your blender or food processor and blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. The duration will depend on your equipment, but usually, a minute or two should suffice.
Step 6: Strain the Mixture
Place a strainer or cheesecloth over a clean bowl or pot. Carefully pour the blended tomato mixture into the strainer, allowing the juice to strain through while catching any solids or seeds. Use the back of a spoon to gently press on the solids to extract more juice.
Step 7: Discard or Save the Solids
Once you’ve strained the tomato juice, you can discard the solids or save them for other recipes. The strained juice is what we’re after, as it’s the pure and smooth tomato goodness that will become your refreshing tomato juice.
Step 8: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the strained tomato juice and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. Remember that you can always add, but you can’t take away, so start with a little and gradually increase as desired.
Step 9: Store and Serve
Finally, transfer your homemade tomato juice into airtight containers for storage. It’s best to refrigerate the juice and consume it within a week for optimal freshness and flavor. When ready to serve, give the juice a good stir or shake, as some separation may occur during storage.
Tips and Variations
While the process outlined above provides a basic recipe for making tomato juice from canned tomatoes, there are some additional tips and variations you can try:
– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato juice.
– If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or use a juicer instead of a blender.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your tomato juice. Oregano, thyme, and celery salt are popular options.
– For a lighter version, you can dilute the tomato juice with water or another liquid of your choice, such as vegetable broth or even vodka for a tomato cocktail.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding other vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers to your tomato juice for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Making tomato juice from canned tomatoes is a quick and easy process that can be done in the comfort of your kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade tomato juice, whether on its own, as a base for soups and sauces, or as part of your favorite cocktail. So grab some canned tomatoes, follow our guide, and savor the goodness of this versatile beverage. Cheers to homemade tomato juice!