So, in order to put aside my fears I took a canning class yesterday afternoon. It was fabulous!
I had NO IDEA that canning with a water bath was so easy! I thought it involved all of this equipment
But, really, it doesn't. So yeah, the jar lifter is nice, and a jar is good to have, but that is it.
We did a jam by simply following a recipe (be sure not to change them as they are made specifically for the right acidity). We boiled the jars in a big pot with an old towel to keep them separated. Then we boiled up some peaches and liquor, sugar, lemon and sure-jell which is the common pectin add-in. We used a kosher pectin from fruit products, not anything scary.
I would recommend at least breaking out the old Better Homes and Gardens book to take a look at what some of the recipes are.
And then, you really only need a pot and some jars, seriously. A jar lifter is nice by you can use whatever else you have around to get a decent enough grip.
-Meghan
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Ive been canning for 5 years now, making jely, salsa pickles and relish. It really is easier that one thinks. I got a kit that had the jar lifter, funnel and the magnetic lid lifter. I think that they are must haves. I also love the ball reciepe book.
ReplyDeleteI would love to learn to can but it seriously intimidates me. I'm very impressed. Also it cracks me up that you have a botulism tag.
ReplyDeleteAlthough it's possible to can without those tools, they are very helpful. I have the same kind of set as the Wohlleb Family and it's is so useful! It's totally worth the price ($10) http://www.freshpreservingstore.com/detail/TCL+1440010720
ReplyDeleteThe other thing I had to buy was a really large pot. None of mine were big enough for canning pints and quarts.