Tomatoes are one ingredient almost every Nigerian kitchen can’t do without. From stew to jollof rice, soups, sauces, and even as base for small chops dips; tomatoes are always in demand.
But here’s the problem: Fresh tomatoes are highly perishable. With power supply being unreliable, not everyone has the luxury of keeping everything in a freezer.
But no worries… you can still preserve your fresh tomatoes for weeks or even months without a freezer. Let’s show you how.
Read More: How To Store Food During Rainy Season To Avoid Spoilage And Mold
1. Sun-Drying Method
This is the traditional and most popular way to preserve tomatoes without electricity.
All you have to do is:
- Wash your tomatoes thoroughly.
- Slice them into halves or quarters.
- Spread on a clean tray under direct sunlight.
- Cover lightly with a mesh or cloth to keep away flies and dust.
After a few days, they will shrink and dry completely. Sun-dried tomatoes can last for months. You can blend into powder or soak in water before cooking.
2. Blanching And Bottling
If you like ready-to-use tomato puree, this method is for you.
Simply:
- Boil water and drop whole tomatoes inside for 2-3 minutes.
- Peel off the skin, blend, and cook until most of the water dries up.
- Pour into sterilized glass bottles or jars and seal tightly.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
You have made for yourself a tomato paste that stays fresh for weeks without refrigeration.
3. Salt Water Preservation
Salt is a natural preservative that helps slow down spoilage.
To preserve using this method,
- Blend your fresh tomatoes roughly.
- Pour into a clean container or jar.
- Add salt generously and stir well.
- Cover tightly and store in a cool corner of your kitchen.
You just process tasty tomato paste that would remain fresh-tasting and ready for your cooking at all times.
4. Airtight Container Storage
Sometimes, keeping it simple works best.
Just:
- Select only firm, fresh tomatoes.
- Wipe them clean and make sure they are completely dry.
- Place inside a dry airtight container.
- Keep in a cool, ventilated spot.
These methods also help keep tomatoes longer than when left open in baskets.
5. Using A Food Dehydrator
If you own a food dehydrator, this is the fastest and cleanest way.
When you buy your tomatoes, just:
- Wash and slice into smaller pieces.
- Arrange them neatly on the dehydrator trays without overlapping.
- Set the temperature to around 55–60°C (135–140°F).
- Dry until the tomatoes feel crispy.
- Store in airtight jars or grind into powder.
Just like in the sun-dry method, blend into powder and store. Mix the flour with water when you want to use it.
Buying tomatoes in bulk is a smart move when the price is low, but proper storage is what truly saves you from wasting money.
So, How Much Is A Basket Of Tomatoes In Lagos Today?
The price of a basket of tomatoes depends on so many factors, including the size of the basket, the season, and even the type of tomatoes. However, the good thing is that when you buy your tomatoes from Iyaloja Direct, you get your fresh tomatoes at wholesale prices whether in portions, or baskets directly from Mile 12 market.
That’s right! No matter how small your order is, with Iyaloja Direct, you enjoy wholesale prices on your foodstuffs and groceries in Lagos, because we are buying for so many people at once with our weekly foodstuff sharing. Join our foodstuff sharing groups today or order directly on our website Iyaloja Direct and save up to 40% on food budget while enjoying doorstep delivery anywhere in Lagos.
