Canning is a lot of work. But, I am finding like many other 'lost' homemaking skills, it is much easier and less time consuming once you get the hang of the process. And .. another plus .. the jars are reusable year after year .. so less waste in the landfill or to recycle. Winter is the perfect time to can beans. So far our storage pantry is nicely stocked with Boston baked beans, pintos, and now red beans. The pintos are so easy to mash to make re-fried beans to serve with tacos. The red beans will be added to our newly
canned beef chili for quick winter meals. For easy to learn canning procedures, check out the
Ball Blue Book Of Home Preserving .. it has recipes for both
water bath and
pressure canning .. lots of pictures and diagrams .. easy instructions for beginners. Can food with a neighbor if you are hesitant .. you might even share the equipment until you decide whether or not home canning is for you. The biggest boon .. quality .. and no preservatives added .. BPA free jars ...for the most part by-passing big ag .. and .. Walmart! Do you can? If not .. find a friendly neighbor and barter for a lesson or two.
Resources:
Tattler Reusable LidsCurrent Day Canning Movement USA Today article
