I rececived six containers of unsellable strawberries yesterday. These were unsellable because some were bad in the containers, but after cutting off bad spots I ended up with a large bowl of them. I crushed them up and decided to make jam. After all the boiling jars and lids, preparing the jam, filling the jars and boiling them, I had a bit of a mess in my kitchen. A very sticky mess to be exact. But, I had a lot of fun doing it so I think I may try it again. When I woke up this morning, the "jam" still hadn't set (but they did seal), so I figure that I now have four large jars of strawberry syrup for pancakes, ice cream, and whatever else.
I can say that it was messy, I can say things didn't go exactly as planned, I can say that I am seriously thinking of investing in a pressure cooker canner and smaller jars, and I can also say that a canning funnel would have been a big help, but even if things weren't ideal I really want to do it again. I also think that with my Celiac, canning will not only be a healthy decision but also a good investment in my wallet. I don't really have a whole lot on my Christmas list, but canning stuff is definately one of those things.
If anyone has ever considered canning, I do recommend it. I also recommend that if you do it that you not have a bunch of hyper kids that just got home from school in the kitchen while you are doing it. The last thing I can say is that a canning funnel, though not necessary, is a VERY good idea; trust me, I had sticky strawberry goop all over my stovetop because I didn't have one. But overall, a fun experience. Good luck!
Good work Bridget.
ReplyDeleteSometimes it takes several days for the pectin to set.
And when they say one batch at a time they mean it.
Like you said if it doesn't set you have great topping.
The thrift stores and garage sales are a great place to find your canning equipment. Also the end of canning season when they switch over to season items.
I'm just learning to can too!
ReplyDeleteI'm not yet to the point where I want to let go of my pressure canner, but I have a cold pack canner I will let you have, if you you want. I have been using a large stock pot that holds 4 quarts lately. The 7 quart cold pack canner is great for larger jobs and will suffice for almost anything other than meat.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for the encouragement! I really did have a lot of fun. Aunt Shelley-thanks for the advice, I was wondering if there was a better time to look for equipment. Grama-I would love to have your cold pack canner! The pot I have is not a very good one. I'm very excited to try again!
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