Want to learn a timeless culinary skill that will elevate your kitchen game and fill your pantry with delicious goodies? Canning is a fantastic way to preserve your favorite fruits and vegetables so you can enjoy them all year long. This beginner-friendly recipe will guide you through the basics of canning with a delicious and versatile fruit jam. Get ready to impress friends and family with your homemade creations straight from your kitchen with these 101 Easy Canning Recipes For Beginners.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ripe strawberries, hulled and chopped
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1 packet liquid pectin
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Equipment: Before you begin, make sure to have all your equipment ready. You’ll need canning jars, lids, and bands, a canning pot with a rack, a wide-mouth funnel, a ladle, and a bubble popper or non-metallic spatula.
2. Sterilize Jars: Wash your jars, lids, and bands in hot, soapy water. Place the jars in a pot filled with water. Bring to a simmer, and let them stay in the hot water until you’re ready to fill them.
3. Cook the Jam: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add Pectin: Once the sugar has dissolved, stir in the liquid pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute, then remove the pot from heat.
5. Test for Gel: To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and tilt it. If the jam wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
6. Fill Jars: Using a wide-mouth funnel, carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth.
7. Seal Jars: Place the lids on the jars, then secure the bands until fingertip tight. Do not overtighten. Carefully place the jars in the canner with simmering water, ensuring they are covered by at least 1 inch of water.
8. Process Jars: Process the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove the jars using jar lifters and let them cool on a towel without touching each other.
9. Check Seals: Once the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing the center of the lid. If it’s firm and doesn’t give, the jar is sealed. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and use them first.
10. Label and Store: Label your jars with the date and type of jam. Store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a month.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of canning with this delicious strawberry jam recipe, you’re ready to explore even more exciting recipes. Experiment with different fruits, flavors, and techniques to create a pantry full of homemade delights. Happy canning!
