Print

Homemade Water-Bath Salsa

A close-up shot of a jar filled with vibrant, chunky homemade salsa, showing tomatoes and peppers.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A safe and tested water-bath canning recipe for delicious homemade salsa, perfect for preserving your garden’s bounty. Customize the texture and spice level to your preference.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups peeled, cored, and chopped tomatoes (about 3 lbs)
  • 1 cup chopped onions (about 1 medium)
  • 1 cup chopped green bell peppers (about 1 large)
  • 1/2 cup chopped jalapeƱo peppers (about 2-3, seeds removed for less heat)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your water bath canner, jars, lids, and bands. Ensure everything is clean and sterilized.
  2. In a large pot, combine the chopped tomatoes, onions, green bell peppers, jalapeƱo peppers, and minced garlic.
  3. Add the lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  4. Stir everything together well.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.
  7. Ladle the hot salsa into hot canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles.
  8. Wipe the jar rims clean and place the lids and bands on.
  9. Process the jars in the boiling water bath canner for 15 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
  10. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack for 12-24 hours. Check for seals.

Notes

  • For a smoother salsa, you can pulse some of the tomatoes in a food processor before adding them to the pot.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeƱo peppers and remove seeds for your desired spice level.
  • Always follow safe canning practices to ensure your salsa is safe for consumption.
  • This recipe is designed for water-bath canning, ensuring the acidity is safe.

Nutrition