That’s why my neighbor envies me: I have been storing tomatoes like this for 10 years and they are always as fresh as in summer

Step 3: Blanching (Optional but Recommended)

Blanching helps to preserve the texture and flavor:

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.
2. Prepare an ice bath in a separate bowl.
3. Immerse tomatoes in boiling water for 30–60 seconds until the skin starts to peel.
4. Transfer immediately to the ice bath to stop cooking.
5. Peel the skin off gently.

Blanching is optional, but it ensures the tomatoes will remain fresh and firm for years.

Step 4: The Secret Storage Method

Here’s the method that keeps my tomatoes fresh for up to 10 years: vacuum sealing and oil bath storage.

Materials Needed:

• Vacuum sealer and vacuum bags
• Clean glass jars with tight lids
• Olive oil or sunflower oil

Steps:

1. Place peeled or whole tomatoes into vacuum bags. Remove as much air as possible and seal them tightly.
2. Fill a glass jar halfway with the vacuum-sealed tomatoes.
3. Pour olive oil into the jar until all tomatoes are completely submerged. The oil prevents oxidation and bacteria growth.
4. Seal the jar tightly.

Step 5: Storage Conditions

For the best results:

• Store in a cool, dark place—a pantry or cellar works perfectly.
• Keep the temperature between 10–15°C (50–59°F).
• Avoid frequent temperature fluctuations, which can damage the tomatoes.

Step 6: Using Your Stored Tomatoes

When you want to use a tomato:

1. Remove the jar from storage.
2. Take out the desired amount; the rest remains safely submerged in oil.
3. Wash off excess oil if needed.
4. Use in salads, sauces, or roasted dishes—the taste is remarkably fresh, like a summer harvest.

Why This Works

The combination of vacuum sealing and oil submersion creates an oxygen-free environment, preventing spoilage and retaining the tomatoes’ flavor, color, and nutrients. Unlike freezing or canning, this method keeps the natural texture intact, making every tomato taste like it was just picked.

Tips for Maximum Freshness

• Rotate every few years: While tomatoes can last a decade, checking the jars every 2–3 years ensures no spoilage occurs.
• Use high-quality oil: Olive oil adds flavor and improves preservation.
• Label jars: Include the storage date for easy tracking.

With this method, my neighbors often ask, “How are your tomatoes still so fresh?” Now, you can be the envy of your neighborhood too—having summer-fresh tomatoes any time of the year, even a decade later.

If you want, I can also make a visual step-by-step guide showing each stage of this tomato preservation method—it’ll make it even easier to follow. Do you want me to do that?