Fruit Canning 101

In years past, fruit canning used to be done all of the time. Now that we are looking into ways to be more frugal, we are going back to things we used to do in the past. Canning fruits is a huge money saver! On top of that, you have fresh fruits and you know what you put in it to preserve them. Before the refrigerator, canning foods was one of the only way people could have fruits and vegetables in the winter. But, when you can them, you are also preserving the fresh fruit to ensure you are getting the best fruit and it is full of flavor too!!

Canning is easy to do. But, of course, you will need a few supplies. Supplies are easily picked up and well worth the initial investment.

You will need the following supplies:

• fruit
• canning jars, lids, and screw bands (check your local store like Walmart, Target or Dollar General).
• slotted spoon or ladle to transfer your fruit into the jars, I also use a wide mouth funnel because I’m messy!
• Jar lifter or tongs to remove hot jars from the water bath or canner.

Steps in Canning Process

Gather everything you need before you get started and make sure you wash all of your jars, lids and screw bands before you get started. This keeps the germs at bay and you will be more successful in your canning efforts.

Clean your fruit and have it ready to go so that way you are ready. Cut up your fruit, and immediately place into jars as you go. I fill one jar at a time and move my funnel when the first one gets full. Leave about a half of an inch at the top between the jar and the lid. Remove the air from between the fruit and try to release the air bubbles. You can add sugar to your fruits if you would like, but I would strongly suggest adding pectin to it as well. That way it doesn’t brown and look yucky in the jar. It won’t look like it came off of the store shelves, but I’m ok with that because it is so much cheaper and healthier too!

Place your lids on top of the jars, screw down the bands and place them into the canner or pressure cooker. Make sure you have 2 inches of water over the jars. Then bring the water to a boil and boil them for five minutes. Then, remove the jars with your tongs and let them set on the counter for at least 24 hours to cool. Check the seals to make sure they sealed and then store in a cabinet or pantry.

Do you can fruit? Is it something you would like to learn and try?