Canning is serious business but don't let it intimidate you. Jams, jellies are good to start with and don't require a lot of supplies. You'll learn to do a water bath, seal the jars, how to test for a seal etc. Once you've actually done a couple of batches you'll start to see the process, learn what supplies you need as opposed to those that are just nice to have. Some things, like tomatoes, can be canned with a water bath as opposed to a pressure cooker. Such a difference to have that fresh taste during the winter. Tomato sauce, chili sauce...no end to what you can make. Cucumbers, for pickles, are easily canned and make good starter items. Sweet from the little ones, sliced bread and butter from the bigger ones. Watermelon pickles are wonderful and make good use of the rinds. If you want to get into canning meats etc then you'll definitely want one of the new pressure cookers, much easier.
There are so many things you can easily do and there is such a satisfaction in seeing those jars lined up on the counter cooling down...then hearing that ping as they seal :) Brandied Peaches and Pickled Peaches are good to round out a meal and so easy to make. Up until a year ago I made Piccalilli from the green tomatoes and peppers that were still on the vine when the weather turned. Jams & Relishes in the small decorative jars make wonderful additions to gift baskets for friends & neighbors. There is nothing better than beets fresh from the garden (or jar). When we have a good year for tomatoes I still put up salsa.
I'm sure there is a lot of information on-line but I'd recommend a good book since you can refer to it as you go along. You can pick them up second hand for a few dollars. You can often find jars and lids used for much less than new, just use new lids so you're assured of a good seal. Whatever you decide, my one caution is to start small :) It's easy to get carried away and there is a lot of preparation and work before you get to the actual canning. If you work in small batches, especially in the beginning it won't be such a chore. Years ago my Mother, sisters and I, would all gather at one house with bushels of tomatoes and can till we were exhausted and divided them up at the end of the day, then did it all over again with peaches etc. Our entire family would gather to make Apple Butter in the fall outside over a fire. Oh, don't forget plums....hmmm makes my mouth water remembering all that good food.
justjans@att.net
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