CHOPPED RED TOMATOES FOR WINTER

Homemade jars of chopped red tomatoes preserved for winter
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Prep Time: ~25 min
Cook Time: ~30 min
Total: ~1 hour
Servings: 20-25
📖 INTRO

Chopped Red Tomatoes for Winter is a simple Georgian preserve made from ripe tomatoes, sweet peppers, and fresh herbs. The vegetables are gently cooked together and packed into jars while still hot, preserving the fresh flavors of summer for use throughout the year.

🏛️ HISTORY

Tomato preserves have long been a staple of Georgian households. During peak tomato season, families prepared large batches of chopped tomatoes to use later in soups, stews, sauces, and everyday cooking. This method preserves the natural flavor of fresh tomatoes without requiring sterilization after filling the jars.

🧂 INGREDIENTS
Ingredients for Georgian beet salad including beets, walnuts, garlic and fresh herbs
👨‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1

Wash the tomatoes, cut them into small pieces, and place them in a large pot. Bring to a boil.

Boiled beets being peeled and grated for Georgian beet salad

Step 2

Add finely chopped bell peppers, parsley, and basil, then cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Walnuts and garlic being crushed into a coarse paste

Step 3

Season with salt, stir well, and remove from the heat. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.

Grated beets mixed with walnut and garlic mixture in a bowl

Step 4

Pour the hot mixture into clean dry jars, seal immediately, and cool upside down.

Adding vinegar and salt to beet salad and mixing thoroughly
💡 TIPS
  • Choose firm, ripe tomatoes with good flavor.
  • The tomatoes can be used either peeled or unpeeled.
  • Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma to the preserve.
  • Store jars in a cool, dark place for best results.
🌍 Ingredient Substitutes
  • Bell peppers → Sweet red peppers Any sweet pepper variety works well.
  • Basil → Cilantro Provides a different but equally fresh flavor.
  • Parsley → Celery leaves Adds a pleasant herbal note.
  • Fresh tomatoes → Roma tomatoes Excellent choice due to lower moisture content.
🍽️ NUTRITION (Approximate)
  • Calories: ~45 kcal per serving
  • Fat: ~0 g
  • Protein: ~2 g
  • Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
❓ FAQ
Do the tomatoes need to be peeled?

No, they can be used either peeled or unpeeled.

Why are the jars cooled upside down?

This helps create a strong seal while the contents are still hot.

Can this preserve be used in cooking?

Yes, it is excellent for soups, stews, sauces, and many Georgian dishes.

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