Hot and Chunky Summer Salsa

Since it's tomato time, I thought I'd share my yummy salsa recipe with you. I used to think salsa was a lot of work and even though it can be time consuming, it's very worth it! In the dead of winter when a craving for garden fresh comes, crack open a jar of your homemade salsa, serve with chips and sour cream and it will bring back that warm summer feeling!

Hot and Chunky Summer Salsa

8 c.peeled, chopped roma tomatoes
3 finely chopped hot banana pepper
4-6 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
1 c. chopped green pepper
2 c. chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 c. vinegar
2 T. dried basil or use more fresh
2 T. salt
1 t. pepper
3 T. sugar (optional)
1 t. dried cilantro leaves or use more fresh

Other:
1 can black beans
1 can corn or 2 c. frozen
1 can tomato paste

Mix together in large pot and cook approx 1/2 hour or until vegetables soften. Add 1 jar tomato paste to thicken.  I also add a can of black beans and 1 can corn before sealing in hot jars. Heat lids in boiling water while adding hot salsa to hot jars. Place lids on jars and place in a spot where jars won't be disturbed for a day or two. Make sure sealed before putting away.

Makes approx 5 pints. I usually make a double batch.