Ultimate Guide to Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe: A Step-by-Step Process for Perfect Homemade Sauce

---#### Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce RecipeThe **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe** is a beloved classic for home canners and cooking enthusiasts alike. Th……

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#### Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe

The **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe** is a beloved classic for home canners and cooking enthusiasts alike. This recipe not only provides a delicious way to preserve fresh tomatoes but also allows you to create a rich and flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you are making spaghetti, pizza, or simply want to enhance your favorite recipes, this sauce is a must-try.

#### Why Choose the Ball Blue Book?

The Ball Blue Book has been a trusted resource for home canning since its inception. It provides tried-and-true recipes, safety guidelines, and tips for preserving food. The **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe** is no exception, offering a straightforward approach that ensures your sauce turns out perfectly every time. By following this guide, you can enjoy the satisfaction of making your own tomato sauce while also preserving the flavors of summer.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To make the **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe**, you will need the following ingredients:

- Fresh tomatoes (about 20 pounds for a large batch)

- 1 cup of chopped onions

- 1 cup of chopped green peppers

- 1 tablespoon of salt

- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)

- 1 teaspoon of black pepper

- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or other herbs to taste)

- 1/2 cup of lemon juice (for acidity)

- Canning jars and lids

These ingredients are easy to source, especially during the tomato harvest season, making this recipe accessible for everyone.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preparation**: Begin by washing your tomatoes thoroughly. Remove any stems and blemishes. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. This will make peeling the skins much easier.

2. **Chop and Cook**: After peeling, chop the tomatoes into quarters and place them in a large pot. Add the chopped onions and green peppers. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes saucy.

3. **Seasoning**: Add salt, sugar, black pepper, and dried basil to the pot. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Remember that the sauce will concentrate in flavor as it cooks, so be cautious with the salt.

4. **Simmer**: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This helps to meld the flavors together and thicken the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer.

5. **Canning Process**: Prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Fill the jars with the hot tomato sauce, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each jar to ensure proper acidity for safe canning.

6. **Seal and Process**: Wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue. Place the lids on and screw on the metal bands until they are fingertip-tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly.

7. **Cooling and Storage**: After processing, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a clean towel. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down in the center of the lid. If it pops back, the jar did not seal properly and should be refrigerated and used soon.

#### Enjoying Your Homemade Sauce

Once you have completed the **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe**, you can enjoy your homemade sauce in countless ways. Use it as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for pizzas, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. The versatility of this sauce makes it a staple in any kitchen.

By following the **Ball Blue Book Tomato Sauce Recipe**, you not only preserve the flavors of summer but also create a delicious condiment that can elevate your meals. Happy canning!