Canning bone broth also helps to preserve its nutrients. When you make a big batch of bone broth, it can be difficult to use it all up before it spoils. By canning it, you can extend the shelf life of your bone broth for up to a year, ensuring that you always have a nutrient-rich ingredient on hand for your cooking needs.
Another benefit of canning bone broth is that it helps to reduce waste. Instead of throwing away leftover bones and vegetable scraps, you can use them to make a delicious and nourishing broth. By canning this broth, you can make the most of every ingredient and reduce your overall food waste.
Tools Needed for Canning
When it comes to canning bone broth, having the right tools on hand can make the process so much easier. Here are some essential tools you'll want to have in your kitchen before you start canning:
Canning Jars: The most important tool you'll need for canning bone broth is a set of canning jars. Make sure to use jars specifically designed for canning, as they are sturdy and can handle the heat of the canning process.
Canning Pot: A large pot with a rack at the bottom is essential for processing your cans of bone broth. This pot will be used to create a hot water bath that will seal your jars properly.
Canning Funnel: A canning funnel is a small funnel specifically designed to fit into canning jars, making it easier to fill them with hot bone broth without making a mess.
Ladle: A ladle will help you transfer the hot bone broth from the pot to the canning jars. Make sure to use a heat-resistant ladle to avoid any accidents.
Canning Tongs: Canning tongs are specially designed to safely remove hot jars from the canning pot. These tongs will help prevent burns and make the canning process much smoother.
Step-by-Step Canning Instructions
1. Begin by preparing your bone broth according to your favorite recipe. Once the broth is done simmering and all the flavors have melded together, strain out the bones and any other solids. Allow the broth to cool slightly before moving on to the canning process.
2. While the broth is cooling, sterilize your canning jars, lids, and bands. You can do this by running them through a hot dishwasher cycle or by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Make sure to handle them with clean tongs to avoid contamination.
3. Once the jars are sterilized and the broth has cooled to a safe temperature, carefully transfer the broth to the jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a proper seal, then place the lids on top and screw on the bands fingertip-tight.
4. Place the jars in a large canning pot filled with boiling water, making sure the jars are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for the specified time according to your elevation and recipe instructions. Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop. Enjoy your homemade canned bone broth for months to come!
Storing and Using Canned Bone Broth
One of the best ways to preserve bone broth for long-term use is through canning. Canning bone broth allows you to have a nutritious and versatile ingredient on hand whenever you need it. Here are some simple steps to store and use canned bone broth effectively.
To store canned bone broth, make sure to use proper canning jars that are specifically designed for canning. Mason jars are a popular choice as they are sturdy and come in various sizes. Fill the jars with bone broth, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. This space is crucial for creating a proper seal during the canning process.
After filling the jars with bone broth, wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a tight seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the screw bands just until they are fingertip tight. Process the jars in a pressure canner according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the canning process is complete, carefully remove the jars from the canner and let them cool before storing them in a cool, dark place.
When you're ready to use canned bone broth, simply open a jar and heat it as needed. You can use canned bone broth as a base for soups, stews, sauces, or even as a warm and comforting drink on its own. With canned bone broth in your pantry, you'll have a convenient and nutritious ingredient at your fingertips for all your cooking needs.
