Tomato Juice is a rich, vibrant, and refreshing healthy drink. It is typically made with fresh ripe tomatoes, olive oil, celery, and basic seasonings. It is a homemade juice that offers a healthy and delightful option, perfect for refreshing summer days or to complement your breakfast or lunch. Plus, it also helps to detox the toxins from the body.
The recipe I have shared provides easy step-by-step instructions for making Tomato Juice at home. It allows you to follow along and enjoy the process of creating this flavorful beverage. Additionally, I have included a detailed video that visually demonstrates the steps, making it even easier to understand and replicate the recipe in your own kitchen.
Jump to:
- What is Tomato Juice?
- Ingredients & Substitutions
- How to Make Tomato Juice at Home?
- Canning Tomato Juice
- Other Methods to Make Tomato Juice
- Benefits
- Downsides
- Calories
- How to Use Tomato Juice?
- Tips
- Storage Suggestions
- Serving Suggestions
- Related Recipes
- Tomato Juice Recipe Video
- Tomato Juice
- Recipe Video
- Chef's Notes and Tips
- Nutrition Info
- FAQ
What is Tomato Juice?
Tomato Juice is a healthy, refreshing, and robust drink that offers a multitude of benefits. Made with ripe tomatoes and other nutritious veggies, along with the addition of olive oil and optional seasonings, it is a flavorful concoction that packs a punch. Tomato Juice is one of the healthiest vegetable drinks that are perfect for refreshing moments or as a flavorful addition to breakfast or lunch.
When it comes to preparing Tomato Juice, there are various methods available. From blending and straining to simmering and canning, each technique offers its own unique advantages. Also, by juicing tomatoes at home, you can have full control over the quality of ingredients, ensuring that you use only fresh and ripe produce.
Homemade Tomato Juice retains more of the natural nutrients and flavors compared to store-bought alternatives. Store-bought tomato juices often contain added sodium and preservatives, which can diminish their nutritional value and taste.
In summary, Tomato Juice is a versatile and nourishing beverage that can elevate your daily routine. With its refreshing qualities and health benefits, it serves as an excellent addition to your diet. Also, Tomato Juice helps detoxify the body by assisting in the elimination of toxins.
By preparing your own Tomato Juice at home, you can savor the natural goodness of fresh ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives. So, why not embrace the rejuvenating taste of homemade Tomato Juice and enjoy its revitalizing effects on your overall well-being? Give it a try and experience the delight of this vibrant, and healthy drink.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients needed for making Tomato Juice are simple, and there are optional add-ins that can enhance its flavor. Let's explore each ingredient below:
- Ripe tomatoes: When selecting tomatoes for making Tomato Juice, it's best to choose ripe ones. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to the touch. They should have a vibrant red color and a sweet aroma. Ripe tomatoes yield a more flavorful and juicy juice
- Celery (optional add-in): Adding celery to Tomato Juice can provide a delightful boost in flavor. Celery adds a subtle, refreshing taste that complements the tomatoes. It brings a hint of herbal notes and contributes to the overall complexity of the juice. Additionally, celery is a healthy veggie that contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, adding to the health benefits of the juice
- Olive Oil: The inclusion of olive oil in Tomato Juice offers several benefits. Olive oil helps to absorb the nutrients present in the veggies, making them more bioavailable to the body. It adds richness and smoothness to the flavor profile of the juice. Furthermore, olive oil is known for its heart-healthy properties and high levels of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for overall well-being
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like garlic, onion, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar can be added to Tomato Juice according to personal preference. These seasonings enhance the taste profile of the juice. Garlic and onion provide savory undertones, black pepper adds a touch of heat, salt helps to balance flavors, and brown sugar brings a hint of sweetness. These seasonings can be altered to suit individual taste preferences
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Tomato Juice at Home?
Tomato Juice is a refreshing and flavorful drink made from ripe tomatoes. The juice is typically prepared by blending or simmering tomatoes and then straining out any solids to achieve a smooth consistency. It can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy drink or used as a base for soups, sauces, or cocktails.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
- Prep Tomatoes: Start by washing and cleaning the tomatoes to ensure they are free from dirt and impurities. Once cleaned, cut the tomatoes roughly. While you can core the tomatoes and remove the seeds, here I have used it with seeds and pulp to extract all the juice and increase the flavor
- Transfer to pot: Next, transfer the roughly chopped tomatoes into a wide non-reactive pot. Enhance the flavor and healthy value by adding celery, olive oil, and water to the pot
- Simmer and cook: Simmer the mixture for 30 to 35 minutes until they turn mushy and have a soup-like consistency. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a flavorful Tomato Juice
- Filter: Once you reach the desired texture, remove the pot from the heat. Proceed by filtering the mixture using a fine mesh sieve to separate the liquid juice from any remaining solids or fibers. Filtering the mixture in batches allows for more effective extraction of the juice
- Season: After that, transfer the Tomato Juice to a pan and heat it over medium heat. At this stage, you can add seasonings such as garlic, onion, black pepper, brown sugar, and salt according to your personal liking. Remember that these seasonings are optional and you can alter them to suit your individual taste
- Boil: Bring the Tomato Juice to a boil and then remove it from the heat. Be careful not to over-boil the juice, as excessive heating can affect its taste and texture
- Serve: You can serve it once it cools down
Canning Tomato Juice
Even though I haven't included the canning process in the recipe card below, I have provided some information about it here:
- Preparation: Ensure that you have sterilized canning jars, lids, and bands ready. Clean and sanitize all equipment, including a water bath canner or large stockpot with a rack
- Fill the jars: Place a canning funnel over each jar and carefully ladle the hot Tomato Juice into the jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the jar rims to ensure a proper seal
- Seal the jars: Place the lids and bands on the jars, tightening the bands until fingertip tight (not overly tight). Place the filled jars into the water bath canner or large stockpot with a rack. The water should cover the jars by at least 1 inch
- Process the jars: Bring the water to a gentle boil and process the jars for the recommended time based on your altitude and jar size. Typically, it ranges from 35 to 45 minutes
- Remove and cool: Using jar lifters, carefully remove the processed jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours. You may hear a popping sound as the lids seal
- Check the seal and store: After cooling, check that the lids have been sealed by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it doesn't flex or pop, it's properly sealed. Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars can be stored for up to one year
You could also check out the how-to select, preserve, juice, and can the produce in detail at NCHFP(National Center for Home Food Preservation).
Other Methods to Make Tomato Juice
Apart from the heating method described earlier, there are other methods to make Tomato Juice. Here are a few alternative methods:
- Blender or Food Processor Method: Wash and roughly chop the tomatoes. Place the tomatoes in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Strain the blended mixture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solids or seeds. Press down on the mixture with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Transfer the strained juice to a container and refrigerate before serving.
- Cold Press or Masticating Juicer Method: Wash and chop the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Feed the tomato pieces through a cold press or masticating juicer. Collect the juice in a container or pitcher. Stir the juice gently to ensure it is well mixed, and refrigerate before serving
- Hand Juicer Method: Wash and cut the tomatoes into smaller pieces. Use a hand juicer or citrus squeezer to manually extract the juice from the tomatoes. Collect the juice in a container or pitcher, straining if desired. Refrigerate the juice before serving
- Blending and Straining Method: Wash and chop the tomatoes. Blend them until smooth, then strain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove solids and seeds. Press down with a spoon to extract maximum juice, and refrigerate in a container before serving
Benefits
Tomato juice offers numerous nutritional benefits, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Let's explore some of its key advantages:
- Vision and Tissue Maintenance: Tomato Juice is rich in vitamin A, particularly in the form of alpha- and beta-carotenoids. These antioxidants play a vital role in maintaining healthy vision and promoting the upkeep of various tissues in the body.
- Good for Chronic Diseases: The presence of antioxidants in Tomato Juice contributes to its potential benefits in combating chronic diseases such as heart disease and the aging process. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic conditions.
- Reduces Inflammation: Tomato Juice is abundant in antioxidants, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of tomato juice may aid in reducing inflammation in the body, benefiting individuals with inflammatory conditions.
- Rich in Vitamin C: It is a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Adequate vitamin C intake supports immune function and promotes overall health.
- Potential Cancer Risk Reduction: Tomato Juice contains a range of antioxidants and nutrients that may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. The presence of lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes, has been associated with a lower risk of prostate, lung, and stomach cancers.
Incorporating Tomato Juice into your diet can provide these notable health benefits. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice regarding your specific health needs. (Source: Healthline & NCBI)
Downsides
While Tomato Juice does offer potential health benefits, it's important to be aware of certain downsides associated with its intake. Commercially available Tomato Juice can often contain high levels of sodium, which may be harmful, particularly for individuals with high blood pressure.
Additionally, some brands may add fruits and veggies during production, potentially increasing the calorie content of the juice. Moreover, for individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the acidity of Tomato Juice can worsen symptoms of acid reflux.
To decrease these concerns, You can prepare homemade Tomato Juice, as this allows for greater control over the ingredients. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of high sodium or calorie intake. Alternatively, when buying Tomato Juice, opt for 100% Tomato Juice without added sugar or salt. This way, you can enjoy the health benefits of Tomato Juice while minimizing potential drawbacks. (Source: NCBI & Healthline)
Calories
This homemade Tomato Juice contains approximately 82 calories per serving, as estimated by the nutrition calculator. Please note that the calorie count may vary if you alter or add any ingredients. For detailed nutritional information, please refer to the recipe card below.
How to Use Tomato Juice?
Tomato Juice can be used in various ways to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your meals. Here are some suggestions on how to use it:
- Drink it as a refreshing beverage
- Use it as a base for soups, sauces, and marinades
- Incorporate it into cocktail recipes like Bloody Mary and Michelada
- Create homemade marinade or salad dressings for meats, chicken, or tofu. The natural acidity of Tomato Juice helps tenderize and flavor the food
- Add it to rice dishes and grain dishes for tomato flavor and vibrant color to the dish
- Add Tomato Juice to sautéed dishes, stir-fries, or braised dishes to infuse them with a rich tomato taste
- Make popsicles for a unique and refreshing summer treat. Simply pour Tomato Juice into popsicle molds and freeze until solid
Tips
- Choose ripe tomatoes: Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes to ensure a rich and delicious juice.
- Use a non-reactive pot: Select a wide non-reactive pot, such as stainless steel or enamel-coated, to prevent any metallic flavors from affecting the juice
- Stir occasionally: While simmering the mixture, stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot
- Adjust heat: Maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent excessive evaporation and maintain the desired consistency
- Strain thoroughly: When filtering the mixture, make sure to press down with a spoon or use a fine mesh strainer to extract as much juice as possible. This helps achieve a smoother and clearer juice
- Seasonings: Garlic, onion, black pepper, brown sugar, and salt can be added to the tomato juice for additional flavor. These seasonings are optional and can be adjusted according to personal preference. Remember to add the seasonings gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired flavor balance
- Utilize the leftover pulp: Instead of discarding the pulp after straining the Tomato Juice, consider using it in other recipes to minimize waste. Puree the leftover pulp and add it to sauces, soups, and stews, or even use it as a base for homemade tomato paste. It adds texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish. Alternatively, you can freeze the pulp for later use, ensuring none of the tomato goodness goes to waste
Storage Suggestions
If the Tomato Juice has been properly simmered, extracted, and canned following canning guidelines, it can be stored for up to 1 year. Ensure that the canning process has been carried out correctly to maintain the quality and safety of the juice.
However, if you are using other methods that do not involve canning, it is recommended to store the juice for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This shorter storage period helps to maintain freshness and prevent any potential spoilage.
Proper storage is essential for preserving the flavor and quality of Tomato Juice. Remember to label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness. Additionally, store the juice in a cool and dark place if you are canning it for long-term storage.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato Juice tastes great on its own as a refreshing drink. Additionally, you can pair it with snacks, and use it as a base for cocktails or smoothies. You can also incorporate it into recipes such as soups or sauces for added flavor and nutritional benefits.
Related Recipes
You could also find similar juice recipes below and more at healthy drinks recipes and summer drinks recipes.
- Beetroot Juice
- Celery Juice
- Cucumber Juice
- Green Juice
- Lemon Juice
- Watermelon Juice
- Orange Juice
- Apple Juice
- Grape Juice
- Pineapple Juice
- Mango Juice
- Strawberry Juice
More Tomato recipes:
Tomato Juice Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Homemade Tomato Juice recipe below that I hope will help you to make a healthy drink at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
Tomato Juice
Ingredients
- 3½ lb Tomato
- 2 rib Celery, chopped
- ½ cup Water
- ½ tsp Onion Powder, optional
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder, optional
- ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder, optional
- 1 tsp Brown Sugar, optional
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp Olive Oil
Instructions
To make Tomato Juice
- Start by washing and cleaning the tomatoes. Cut the tomatoes as shown in the picture. You can also core the tomatoes and remove the seeds, but I have used them with seeds and pulp to extract all the juice from the tomatoes
- Transfer the roughly chopped tomatoes into a wide non-reactive pot, and add chopped celery, olive oil, and water. The addition of olive oil helps to absorb the nutrients from the vegetables, enhances flavor, and boosts antioxidants
- Simmer the vegetables for about 30 to 35 minutes until they turn mushy and the soupy consistency
- Remove the mixture from heat and filter it using a fine mesh strainer. You can filter the mixture in batches to extract the juice. Use a spoon to extract as much juice as possible
- Now, add the extracted Tomato Juice to a pan over medium heat and season it with garlic, onion, black pepper, brown sugar, and salt. These seasonings are optional, and you can customize them according to your taste preferences
- Bring the Tomato Juice to a boil and then remove it from the heat. Be careful not to over-boil the juice. Now your delicious and healthy drink is ready for you to taste and enjoy
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Choose ripe tomatoes: Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes to ensure a rich and delicious juice.
- Use a non-reactive pot: Select a wide non-reactive pot, such as stainless steel or enamel-coated, to prevent any metallic flavors from affecting the juice
- Stir occasionally: While simmering the mixture, stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot
- Adjust heat: Maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent excessive evaporation and maintain the desired consistency
- Strain thoroughly: When filtering the mixture, make sure to press down with a spoon or use a fine mesh strainer to extract as much juice as possible. This helps achieve a smoother and clearer juice
- Seasonings: Garlic, onion, black pepper, brown sugar, and salt can be added to the tomato juice for additional flavor. These seasonings are optional and can be adjusted according to personal preference. Remember to add the seasonings gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired flavor balance
- Utilize the leftover pulp: Instead of discarding the pulp after straining the Tomato Juice, consider using it in other recipes to minimize waste. Puree the leftover pulp and add it to sauces, soups, and stews, or even use it as a base for homemade tomato paste. It adds texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dish. Alternatively, you can freeze the pulp for later use, ensuring none of the tomato goodness goes to waste
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer: We’re not nutrition experts. Nutritional info is estimated and should be used as a guide. For precise details, consult a professional.
FAQ
Tomato Juice is a healthy and refreshing drink, known for its robust flavor and numerous benefits. Made with ripe tomatoes, nutritious veggies, olive oil, and seasonings, it offers a flavorful and satisfying experience. With its rich nutritional profile, Tomato Juice stands as one of the healthiest vegetable drinks, making it an ideal choice for refreshing moments or as a flavorful complement to breakfast or lunch.
Yes, drinking Tomato Juice can be beneficial for your health. Tomato Juice is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants such as lycopene. These nutrients contribute to various health benefits, including supporting immune function, promoting healthy skin, and protecting against cellular damage caused by free radicals. However, it's important to note that individual dietary needs may vary, and it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
While Tomato Juice is generally considered safe and healthy for most people, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare expert if you have a tomato allergy, is on a low-potassium diet, has GERD or IBS, or are taking specific medications. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health condition and medication regimen to ensure Tomato Juice is suitable for you.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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