I went into my grandma’s chest and found a recipe for tomatoes for the winter “Winter Blizzard” WITHOUT STERILIZATION

That sounds like a real treasure! Grandma’s recipes, especially those passed down through generations, often hold the best secrets. Tomatoes “Winter Blizzard” without sterilization? That’s a gem! Here’s a possible recipe, pieced together from what’s likely a traditional method, with some notes on safety since we’re skipping sterilization:

Grandma’s “Winter Blizzard” Tomatoes (Without Sterilization – Use Caution!)

Important Note: While this recipe aims to be safe, remember that canning without sterilization carries a higher risk of spoilage. It’s crucial to follow the instructions precisely and store the jars in a cool, dark place. Any signs of spoilage (bulging lids, mold, off odors) mean the tomatoes should be discarded.  

Ingredients:

• Ripe, firm tomatoes (about 2 kg)
• Garlic (4-6 cloves, or to taste)
• Dill (fresh or dried)
• Horseradish root (a small piece, optional)
• Bay leaves (2-3)
• Black peppercorns (1 tsp)
• For the brine (per 1 liter of water):
  • Sugar (2-3 tbsp)
  • Salt (1-2 tbsp)
  • Vinegar (9% – 50-70ml)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jars:
   • Wash jars thoroughly with hot, soapy water.
   • Rinse them very well.
   • While not sterilized by boiling, you can rinse them with boiling water right before packing.
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   • Wash the tomatoes well.
   • You can prick the tomatoes with a toothpick near the stem to prevent them from bursting.
3. Prepare the Spices:
   • Peel and slice the garlic.
   • Wash the dill and horseradish root.
4. Pack the Jars:
   • Place garlic, dill, horseradish (if using), bay leaves, and peppercorns in the bottom of each jar.
   • Pack the tomatoes tightly into the jars.
5. Prepare the Brine:
   • Bring the water, sugar, and salt to a boil.
   • Remove from heat and add the vinegar.
6. Pour the Brine:
   • Immediately pour the hot brine over the tomatoes, filling the jars to the top.
7. Seal the Jars:
   • Seal the jars tightly with clean lids.
   • Turn the jars upside down until they are fully cooled.
8. Storage:
   • Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
   • Check the lids regularly for any signs of bulging.

Important Considerations:

• Vinegar: The vinegar is crucial for preservation. Adjust the amount to your taste, but ensure there’s enough to create an acidic environment.
• Tomato Quality: Use only the freshest, firmest tomatoes. Any bruised or damaged tomatoes can introduce bacteria.  
• Cleanliness: Maintain impeccable cleanliness throughout the process.
• Testing: If you’re unsure about the safety of the tomatoes, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard them.

This recipe is a traditional method, and it’s essential to understand the risks involved with canning without sterilization. Enjoy your grandma’s recipe, and happy preserving!