Tomato Harvest Marinara Sauce

Instructions

• Inspect 10 quart-sized jars for cracks and rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Immerse in simmering water until sauce is ready. Wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water.
• Place tomatoes, honey, oregano, 1 tablespoon salt, pepper, and bay leaves in a large stockpot; add water to cover. Stir to combine, cover, and bring to a low boil over medium-high heat. Remove the cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning.
• While tomatoes are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir onions and garlic in hot oil until onions are softened but not browned, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
• Transfer cooked tomatoes to a food mill placed over a bowl; purée in batches, separating tomato pulp and juice from tomato skins and seeds.
• Return tomato pulp and juice to the stockpot. Stir in cooked onions and garlic. Cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, over medium-high heat until sauce thickens and reduces by about half, 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Transfer the jars and lids from simmering water to a dry towel.
• Place 3 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon salt into each jar. Ladle hot tomato sauce into the sterilized jars, filling to within 1/2 inch of the top. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with the lids and screw the rings on tightly.
• Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process until the jars are fully sealed, about 45 minutes.
• Remove the jars from the stockpot and let rest, several inches apart, for 12 to 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the lid does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool dark area.