Summer is a beautiful time filled with sunshine, fun, and bountiful harvests of delicious fruits and veggies. But what if you could enjoy the flavors of summer even when the season is over? That’s where canning, and freezing come in! But before you get started, let’s make sure you know how to do it safely.

Bottling up the Goodness

Canning is a wonderful way to bottle up the goodness of summer. Imagine having a jar that, when opened, releases the vibrant tastes and smells of summer! But to truly capture that essence, it’s crucial to ensure safety in the process. First and foremost, cleanliness is paramount. It’s essential to thoroughly wash your hands, the fresh produce, and even the jars you’re about to use. Then comes the heating process, which acts as a guardian against germs. It’s vital to adhere to the recommended canning times and procedures for the specific item you’re preserving. And once you’ve got your summer delights in the jar, ensuring a tight seal is the final step. A well-sealed jar has its lid firmly pushed down in the center, ensuring it doesn’t pop back up. This is the sign of a summer safely stored away, ready to be revisited any time of the year!

Cold Storage Magic

Freezing is akin to having a magical pause button for our cherished summer foods, allowing us to halt the ticking clock of spoilage. To freeze with confidence and safety, there are a few steps to keep in mind. First, consider blanching certain vegetables a swift dip in boiling followed by an icy water plunge. This step not only preserves their vibrant hues but also retains the authentic taste of summer. Once they’re ready, it’s time to pack them up. Whether you’re using freezer bags or containers, ensuring minimal air inside is crucial. For bags, squeeze out excess air, and if you’re reaching for containers, remember to leave a wee bit of space at the top. And here’s a golden tip: never underestimate the power of a good label! Jot down both the date and the contents. That way, when winter descends, there are no perplexing, frozen enigmas waiting in your freezer just memories of a sun-kissed summer.

With these tips, you can enjoy the yummy tastes of summer all year round. Remember, the key to preserving food is to do it safely. When in doubt, always check if your food smells, looks, and tastes good. If something seems off, it’s better to be safe and not eat it.

Interested in diving deeper into the world of canning? Check out our website for information on our next canning class and join us to learn even more!

Written by Irisvette Lagoa and Elizabeth C. Shephard

References

USDA. (2013, June 15). Food safety and inspection service. www.fsis.usda.gov. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/freezing-and-food-safety

USDA. (2021, September 6). USDA’s complete guide to home Canning. National Institute of Food and Agriculture. https://www.nifa.usda.gov/about-nifa/blogs/usdas-complete-guide-home-canning

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