June is the perfect time of year to start filling up your pantry with delicious canned goods that will last you through the rest of the year. Here are some of the best foods to focus on for your canning projects this month.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are in peak season in June, making them a fantastic choice for canning. Whether you prefer to make strawberry jam, preserves, or even pickled strawberries, you can't go wrong with these sweet and juicy berries.
2. Green Beans
Green beans are another staple of summer canning. Whether you pickle them, can them in a tomato sauce, or simply blanch and freeze them, green beans are a versatile veggie that will add some variety to your pantry shelves.
3. Peaches
Juicy, fragrant peaches are a wonderful fruit to can in June. Peach preserves, peach salsa, or even canned peach halves are all delicious options. Plus, having canned peaches on hand means you can enjoy that summer flavor all year round.
Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables to Preserve
June is the perfect time to start thinking about canning and preserving some of the delicious fruits and vegetables that are in season. Not only does canning help you cut down on food waste, but it also allows you to enjoy your favorite produce all year round. Here are some of the best foods to preserve in June:
Strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries are in abundance during the month of June. Whether you make strawberry jam or can them whole, you can enjoy the sweet taste of summer even in the middle of winter.
Cucumbers: Cucumbers are another popular vegetable to preserve in June. Pickling cucumbers is a great way to enjoy them on sandwiches or as a tangy side dish throughout the year.
Peas: Fresh peas are delicious, but they have a short growing season. Canning peas allows you to enjoy their sweet flavor long after they've disappeared from the farmers' market.
Easy Canning Recipes for Beginners
First up, why not try your hand at making some homemade strawberry jam? This classic canning recipe is perfect for beginners, as it only requires a few simple ingredients. All you need are some fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and pectin. Just follow the step-by-step instructions, and before you know it, you'll have delicious jars of jam to enjoy all year round.
If you're more of a savory fan, consider trying your hand at pickling some crunchy cucumbers. Pickles are a great way to add some zing to your meals, and they're surprisingly easy to make. Just slice your cucumbers, pack them into sterilized jars with some dill, garlic, and vinegar brine, and process them in a water bath canner. In no time, you'll have tasty pickles to snack on whenever the craving strikes.
Tips for Successful Canning at Home
To ensure successful canning at home, it's important to start with the freshest ingredients possible. Whether you're canning fruits, vegetables, or jams, using produce at its peak ripeness will result in the best flavors and textures in your canned goods. This means picking or purchasing your produce when it's in season and at the height of its flavor.
Another key tip for successful canning is proper sterilization of your canning equipment. This includes jars, lids, and any utensils you'll be using throughout the process. Sterilizing your equipment will help prevent any bacteria from contaminating your canned goods, ensuring they stay fresh and safe to eat for longer periods of time.
When it comes to filling your jars, make sure to leave the appropriate amount of headspace at the top. This will vary depending on the recipe you're using, but typically ranges from 1/4 inch to 1 inch. Leaving the correct amount of headspace will allow for proper sealing and processing of the jars, resulting in a safe and successful canning experience.
Lastly, be sure to follow proper canning recipes and procedures. Canning is a science, and deviations from recommended recipes or processes can result in spoiled or unsafe canned goods. By following tried and true canning recipes and procedures, you'll ensure that your homemade canned goods are both delicious and safe to enjoy.
