Preserving Tradition in Tottenville: Jarring Fresh Tomatoes with Love
As summer draws to a close, families of Italian descent in Tottenville come together to partake in a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations – jarring fresh tomatoes. This annual event is more than just a way to preserve the freshness of the pomodoro; it is a time-honored ritual that strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories.
The Ferraioli family, residents of Tottenville, is one such family that holds this tradition close to their hearts. Led by patriarch Pasquale Fuschetto, who hails from Sant’Angelo dei Lombardi in Italy, the Ferraioli family members all play a part in the elaborate process of jarring fresh tomatoes. From setting up equipment to cutting tomatoes, boiling, straining, grinding, and filling jars, each family member is assigned a specific task to ensure the success of the event.
A Labor of Love
The process begins with the gathering of fresh, ripe tomatoes, humongous pots, stacks of clean Mason jars, lids and rings, outdoor burners, oversized wooden spoons, clean aprons, lots of linens, salt, fresh basil, and of course, plenty of love. The day starts early, around 8 a.m., and continues until 11 p.m., with the entire family working together to complete the task at hand.
Italian music fills the air as the aroma of fresh tomatoes wafts through the air, creating a festive atmosphere that is both nostalgic and heartwarming. Each step of the process is carefully executed, from washing and cutting the tomatoes to boiling, straining, grinding, and finally jarring them with salt and basil. The jars are then covered in blankets to maintain warmth and left to mature for a week before they are ready to be enjoyed.
Honoring Tradition and Family
For the Ferraioli family, the annual tomato jarring event is not just a culinary tradition; it is a way to honor their heritage and pay tribute to their late family member, Paul Ingravallo, who was affectionately known as the “Sauce Boss.” Paul, who passed away in 2023 after an 18-month battle with cancer, was instrumental in teaching the family the intricacies of the tomato jarring process that he learned from his own parents.
Despite the absence of Paul, his spirit is felt throughout the day as the family comes together to continue the tradition that he loved so dearly. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and the bonds that hold them together. Each jar of tomatoes is a testament to the love and dedication that the Ferraioli family puts into preserving their heritage and creating lasting memories for generations to come.
In conclusion, the tradition of jarring fresh tomatoes is more than just a culinary practice for families like the Ferraioli’s; it is a way to connect with their roots, honor their loved ones, and create meaningful experiences that will be cherished for years to come. As the sweet aroma of fresh tomatoes fills the air in Tottenville, it serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that is passed down through generations, keeping traditions alive and strengthening family bonds in the process.