Canning season

Last night our friend brought us several cucumbers and zucchini so today the canning season officially began in our house. I just finished making bread and butter pickles with the cucumbers he brought.

Canning can be hard work but also very rewarding. Nothing is better than opening some of your canned goods that you have made and eating them. You will be surprised how much better they taste than store bought.

If you have not canned before, it is a good idea to invest in a basic canning book which will help you with terminology (like head space) and basic safety practices. Initial investments are not huge-water bath canner, jars and lids. Jars can seem expensive but you will use them year after year. When I started I simply bought the jars as I needed them. I also found several at yard sales.

Another option for new canners (as well as experienced canners) is prefabbed mixes you add to your produce. These can be found in the canning aisle of most major grocery and big box stores. Some brand names are Mrs. Wages and Ball. They will increase the cost of your end product but are helpful for those who are very busy or intimidated with the canning process. Mixes include several products for tomatos along with cucmbers. You simply follow the directions on the back of the package. I have used the Mrs. Wages brand and find them to be delicious.

Canning can be hot, hard work but I always look forward to it each year. There is nothing like making your own homemade food. Happy canning!