Canning at home allows you to preserve a variety of delicious and nutritious meals and ingredients. Whether you’re new to canning or a seasoned pro, these recipes will help you create wholesome, homemade food that can be enjoyed year-round. Canning is not only a practical way to extend the shelf life of your garden produce, but it also offers the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your food. Here are three of my favorite canning recipes:
1. Raw Pack Potatoes
Potatoes are a versatile and beloved staple in many kitchens. This recipe for raw pack potatoes ensures you have them ready to use in soups, stews, or as a quick side dish. The method is straightforward, making it a perfect starting point for beginners.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes
- Salt (1 tsp for quarts, 1/2 tsp for pints)
- Boiling water
Instructions:
- Wash and cube the potatoes.
- Pack tightly into cold jars.
- Add salt (1 tsp for quarts, 1/2 tsp for pints).
- Fill with boiling water, leaving 1 inch headspace.
- Process in a pressure canner (40 minutes for quarts, 35 minutes for pints).
2. Raw Pack Beef Stew
Nothing beats a warm, hearty beef stew on a cold day. By canning it in advance, you can have a ready-to-eat, homemade meal on hand whenever you need it. This recipe combines tender stew meat with a medley of vegetables for a nourishing and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- Stew meat
- Peeled & diced potatoes
- Diced carrots
- Diced onions
- Diced celery
- Salt (1 tsp for quarts, 1/2 tsp for pints)
- Boiling water or broth
Instructions:
- Tightly pack jars with some of each ingredient.
- Add salt (1 tsp for quarts, 1/2 tsp for pints).
- Fill with boiling water or broth, leaving 1 inch headspace.
- Process in a pressure canner (90 minutes for quarts, 75 minutes for pints).
3. Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. This recipe captures the tart and refreshing flavor of fresh cranberries, perfect for enjoying on its own or as a mixer in various beverages. Allowing the juice to steep for a few weeks enhances its flavor and provides a delightful drink.
Ingredients:
- 4 – 12 oz bags of cranberries
- 7 quart jars
- 3.5 cups of sugar
- Boiling water
Instructions:
- Add 1 3/4 cups of cranberries to each jar.
- Top with 1/2 cup of sugar in each jar.
- Prepare the water bath canner and lids, bringing them to a simmer.
- Pour separate boiling water over cranberries and sugar, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Top with lids and rings (only fingertight).
- Add to canner and bring to a full rolling boil.
- Process both quarts and pints for 25 minutes.
- Let steep for 4 to 6 weeks before drinking.
Canning Tips and Tricks
- Label Your Jars: Always label your jars with the date and contents to keep track of what’s in your pantry.
- Store Properly: Keep your canned goods in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality and safety.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs, spices, and different vegetables to create unique and delicious combinations.
Ready to Master the Art of Canning?
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