Monday, August 30, 2010

Fried Cabbage Texas Style

Ingredients

1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon white sugar
6 slices bacon
5 tablespoons corn bread mix
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 fresh jalapeno peppers, seeded and julienned
salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Place the shredded cabbage into a large bowl, and sprinkle the sugar over it. This will remove the excess water from the cabbage. Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside, reserving grease in skillet.
In a small bowl, mix together the cornbread mix and cayenne pepper. Stir into the cabbage until well blended. In the skillet the bacon was cooked in, saute onion and jalapeno in the hot bacon grease until tender. Stir in cabbage, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the cabbage wilts, about 15 minutes. Stir in crumbled bacon, and serve immediately.

Fried Dandelions

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons seasoned salt
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
4 eggs
80 unopened dandelion blossoms, stems removed
1/2 cup butter

Directions

Combine the flour, seasoned salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until evenly combined; set aside. Beat the eggs in a mixing bowl, then stir in the dandelion blossoms until completely coated.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove half of the dandelions from the egg, and allow the excess egg to drip away. Toss in the flour until completely coated, then remove from the flour, tossing between your hands to allow excess flour to fall away. Cook the dandelions in the melted butter until golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining dandelions.

Southern Style Fried Okra

Ingredients

20 pods okra, sliced in 1/4 inch pieces
6 Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 large sweet onion, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 (8.5 ounce) package corn bread/muffin mix (such as Jiffy®)
1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Place vegetables in a colander, rinse with cold water, and transfer to a large mixing bowl. In this next step, use your best judgement. Add enough corn meal to coat all of the vegetables in the bowl. Toss lightly till vegetables are coated with corn meal, adding more corn meal if necessary.
In a large frying pan, pour in oil to cover bottom of the pan; place pan over medium to medium-high heat. Heat oil until hot but not smoking. To test if oil is ready, wet your fingers with some water and flick water into oil. If the oil sizzles immediately, it is ready to cook.
Spoon out vegetables into frying pan in a single layer. When vegetables turn golden brown on bottom, flip them over, and continue cooking until browned on the other side. Transfer to a bowl lined with paper towels to drain oil. Repeat process till all vegetables are cooked.

Fried Okra

Ingredients

10 pods okra, sliced in 1/4 inch pieces
1 egg, beaten
1 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Directions

In a small bowl, soak okra in egg for 5 to 10 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge okra in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Carefully place okra in hot oil; stir continuously. Reduce heat to medium when okra first starts to brown, and cook until golden. Drain on paper towels.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Home Canning Orange Chili Marmalade

Makes about 8 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 2 1/4 lbs oranges (unpeeled), seeded and thinly sliced
 Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
 6 cups water
 3 dried habenero chili peppers
 9 cups granulated sugar
 8 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) COMBINE oranges, lemon zest and juice and water in a large, deep stainless steel saucepan, Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring occasionally, for 40 minutes. Add chili peppers, partially cover and boil gently, stirring occasionally, until fruit is very soft, about 30 minutes. Remove and discard chili peppers.
2.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
3.) BRING mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Maintaining boil, gradually stir in sugar. Boil hard, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches gel stage, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and test gel. If gel stage has been reached, skim off foam.
4.) LADLE hot marmalade into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Maple-Walnut Syrup

Makes about 4 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 1-1/2 cups corn syrup
 1 cup pure maple syrup
 1/2 cup water
 1/2 cup granulated sugar
 2 cups walnut pieces
 4 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE corn syrup, maple syrup and water in a stainless steel saucepan. Add sugar and heat over medium, stirring until dissolved. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring constantly, until syrup begins to thicken, about 15 minutes. Stir in walnuts and cook for 5 minutes.
3.) LADLE hot syrup into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Strawberry Jam (light)

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 4 cups crushed strawberries
 1 cup unsweetened white grape juice
 1 1.75-oz pkg Ball® No Sugar Needed Fruit Pectin
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE strawberries and juice in a 6- to 8-quart saucepan. Gradually stir in pectin. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary.
3.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Berry-Cherry Jam (light)

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 2 cups crushed strawberries (about 2 1-lb containers)
 1 cup finely chopped sweet cherries (about 1.5 lb)
 1 cup crushed blackberries (about 0.6 lb or 1/2 6-oz container)
 1 cup unsweetened white grape juice
 1 1.75-oz pkg Ball® No Sugar Needed Fruit Pectin
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE strawberries, cherries, blackberries and juice in a 6- to 8-quart saucepan. Gradually stir in pectin. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary.
3.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Lemon-Sage Wine Mustard

Makes about 5 (4 oz) jars

You will need:
 1 bunch fresh sage
 3/4 cup dry white wine
 3/4 cup yellow mustard seeds
 1 cup white wine vinegar
 Grated zest and juice of 2 large lemons
 1/2 cup liquid honey
 1/4 tsp salt
 5 (4 oz) glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) FINELY CHOP enough sage leaves to measure 1/3 cup and set aside.
2.) COARSELY CHOP remaining sage leaves and stems to measure 1/2 cup and place in a small stainless steel saucepan with white wine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring and pressing sage to release flavor. Remove from heat. Cover tightly and let steep for 5 minutes.
3.) TRANSFER sage infusion to a sieve placed over a glass or stainless steel bowl and press leaves with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard solids and return liquid to saucepan. Add mustard seeds. Cover and let stand at room temperature until seeds have absorbed most of the moisture, about 2 hours.
4.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
5.) COMBINE marinated mustard seeds (with liquid) and vinegar in a blender or food processor fitted with a metal blade. Process until blended and most seeds are well chopped, but retaining a slightly grainy texture.
6.) TRANSFER mixture to a stainless steel saucepan and add lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, salt and reserved finely chopped sage. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and boil gently, stirring frequently, until volume is reduced by a third, about 20 minutes.
7.) LADLE hot mustard into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
8.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Kiwi Daiquiri Jam

Makes about 4 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 2 cups crushed peeled kiwifruit (about 5 medium)
 2/3 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
 1/3 cup lime juice
 1 1.75-oz pkg Ball® Original Fruit Pectin
 3 cups sugar
 1/4 cup rum
 3 drops green food coloring, optional
 4 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE kiwifruit, pineapple juice and lime juice in a large saucepan. Gradually stir in pectin. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Add sugar and return to a full rolling boil that can not be stirred down, stirring constantly. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Immediately stir in rum and green food coloring, if using. Remove from heat. Skim off foam if necessary.
3.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Quick Tip
For even more tropical flair, add flaked coconut with the sugar to the fruit and juice before returning to a full rolling boil.

Home Canning Jalapeño Jelly

Makes about 5 (8 oz) half pints


You will need:
 12 oz jalapeño peppers (about 12 med)
 2 cups cider vinegar, divided
 6 cups sugar
 2 (3-oz each) pouches of Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin
 Green food coloring, optional
 5 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) PURÉE peppers in food processor or blender with 1 cup cider vinegar until smooth. Do not strain purée.
3.) COMBINE purée with remaining 1 cup cider vinegar and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat. Boil 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
4.) ADD Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin, immediately squeezing entire contents from pouches. Continue to boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add food coloring, if using, and skim foam if necessary.
5.) LADLE hot jelly into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Note: When cutting or seeding hot peppers, wear rubber gloves to keep your hands from being burned.

Home Canning Italian-Style Tomato Sauce

Makes about 3 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 8 cups fresh plum tomato purée
 2/3 cup finely chopped onion
 2/3 cup finely chopped celery
 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
 4 tbsp bottled lemon juice
 2 tsp salt
 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
 1/2 tsp hot pepper flakes
 3 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE 1 cup of tomato purée, onion, celery, carrot and garlic in a large stainless steel saucepan, Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat, cover and boil gently until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. While maintaining a steady boil, add remaining tomato purée, 1 cup at a time, stirring frequently. Stir in lemon juice, salt, black pepper and hot pepper flakes. Increase heat to high and bring to a full rolling boil; boil hard, stirring frequently, until mixture is reduced by one third, about 15 minutes.
3.) LADLE hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and re-measure headspace. If needed, add more sauce to meet recommended headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Hot Chipotle Salsa

Makes about 4 (16 oz) pints or 8 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 5 14.5-oz cans petite diced tomatoes
OR
 4 lb fresh tomatoes (about 12 medium) to yield 9 cups finely diced
 1 1.5-oz pkg Ball® Simple Creations® Hot Chipotle Salsa Mix
 4 (16 oz) pint or 8 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) COMBINE tomatoes and contents of package in a medium saucepan.
2.) HEAT to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes.
3.) COOL to room temperature, about 30 minutes, before serving.
4.) REFRIGERATE up to 3 weeks.

Print This Recipe

Home Canning Honey-Spiced Peaches

Makes about 3 (32 oz) quarts
You will need:
 8 lb peaches (about 24 small)
 1 cup sugar
 4 cups water
 2 cups honey
 1-1/2 tsp whole allspice
 3/4 tsp whole cloves
 3 sticks cinnamon
 3 (32 oz) quart glass preserving jars

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready to use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH, peel and pit peaches. Leave peaches in halves or cut into slices, if desired. Treat fruit to prevent browning.
3.) COMBINE sugar, water and honey. Cook until sugar dissolves. Add peaches in syrup one layer at a time and cook for 3 minutes.
4.) PACK hot peaches into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Add 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp cloves and 1 stick cinnamon to each jar.
5.) LADLE hot syrup over peaches leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 25 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Homemade Apple Juice

Makes about 6 (32 oz) quarts or 12 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 24 lbs apples, stemmed and chopped (about 72 apples)
 8 cups water
 6 (32 oz) quart or 12 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) COMBINE apples and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
2.) TRANSFER apples and juice, working in batches, to a strainer lined with several layers of cheesecloth. Let drip, undisturbed, for at least 2 hours.
3.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
4.) HEAT apple juice to 190°F in a clean large saucepan over medium-high heat.
5.) LADLE hot juice to hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Honey-Orange Slices

Makes about 3 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 3 cinnamon sticks broken into pieces
 1-1/2 tsp whole cloves
 1-1/2 tsp whole allspice
 2-1/2 lb oranges, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced, ends and seeds discarded (about 8 medium)
 Water
 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar
 1-1/4 cups liquid honey
 3 Tbsp. lemon juice
 3 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) TIE cinnamon stick pieces, cloves and allspice in a square of cheesecloth, creating a spice bag. Set aside.
2.) COMBINE oranges with water to cover in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and boil gently until peel is tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3.) COMBINE sugar, honey and lemon juice in a clean large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar. Add reserved spice bag and oranges. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and boil gently until orange slices are well glazed, about 40 minutes. Discard spice bag.
4.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
5.) PACK hot oranges into hot jars, using a slotted spoon, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot syrup into hot jar to cover oranges leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Corn Relish

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 2 cups white vinegar
 2/3 cup sugar
 1 Tbsp salt
 4 cups cooked corn kernels (about 8 ears)
 2 cups diced mixed red and green bell peppers (about 2 large)
 3/4 cup diced celery (about 2 stalks)
 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (about 1 small)
 1 Tbsp dry mustard
 1 tsp celery seeds
 1 tsp ground turmeric
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE vinegar, sugar and salt in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Add corn, red and green peppers, celery, onion, mustard, celery seeds and turmeric. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
3.) LADLE hot relish into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Herbed Tomato Juice

Makes about 6 (32 oz) quarts or 12 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 25 lb ripe tomatoes (about 75 medium)
 Bottled lemon juice or citric acid
 Fresh dill, parsley or basil
 6 (32 oz) quart or 12 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH tomatoes and drain. Remove core and blossom ends. Cut tomatoes into quarters. Simmer tomatoes in a large stainless steel saucepan until soft, stirring to prevent sticking. Juice tomatoes in a in a food processor or food mill. Strain juice to remove peels and seeds.
3.) HEAT juice 5 minutes at 190°F. Do not boil.
4.) ADD 2 Tbsp bottled lemon juice or 1/2 tsp citric acid to each hot quart jar, 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice or 1/4 tsp citric acid to each hot pint jar. Ladle hot juice into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Add a sprig of fresh herbs to each quart jar, 1/2 sprig to each pint jar. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner 35 minutes for pints and 40 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Herbed Seasoned Tomatoes

Makes about 6 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 12 cups halved cored peeled tomatoes (about 24 medium or 8 lb)
 Water
 Spice blend(s), see below
 Bottled lemon juice
 Salt, optional
 6 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE tomatoes with just enough water to cover in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil gently for 5 minutes.
3.) ADD specified quantity of your chosen spice blend, 1 Tbsp lemon juice and 1/4 tsp salt, if using, to each hot jar.
4.) PACK tomatoes into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot cooking liquid over tomatoes leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner 40 minutes for pints and quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Italian Spice Blend
Makes about 6 (32 oz) quarts or 12 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 4 tsp basil
 2 tsp thyme
 2-1/2 tsp oregano
 1-1/2 tsp rosemary
 1-1/2 tsp sage
 1 tsp garlic powder
 1 tsp hot pepper flakes, optional

1.) ADD 2-1/4 tsp of spice blend to each pint jar. If omitting hot pepper flakes, use only 2 tsp.



Mexican Spice Blend
Makes about 6 (32 oz) quarts or 12 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 6 tsp chili powder
 2 tsp ground cumin
 2 tsp oregano
 2 tsp garlic powder
 2 tsp ground coriander
 1-1/2 tsp seasoned salt, optional

1.) ADD 2-1/2 tsp of spice blend to each pint jar. If omitting seasoned salt, use only 2 tsp.



Cajun Spice Blend
Makes about 6 (32 oz) quarts or 12 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 3 tsp chili powder
 2 tsp paprika
 1-1/2 tsp onion flakes
 1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
 1-1/2 tsp ground allspice
 1-1/2 tsp thyme
 1 tsp cayenne pepper

1.) ADD 2 tsp of spice blend to each pint jar.

Home Canning Herbed Peas

You will need:
 1 1/2 to 3 pounds peas per pint
 Chervil
 Thyme
 Water
 Pint or quart glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH and rinse peas thoroughly. Drain. Shell peas and wash again. Place prepared beans in a large saucepan and cover with boiling water. Boil small peas (less than 1/4”), 3 minutes and medium peas (1/4” to 1/3”), 5 minutes. Drain. Rinse in hot water and drain again.
3.) PACK hot peas into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Add 1/4 teaspoon chervil and 1/4 teaspoon thyme to each pint jar, 1/2 teaspoon chervil and 1/2 teaspoon thyme to each quart jar.
4.) LADLE boiling water over peas leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 40 minutes for pints and quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Hearty Chili

Makes about 3 (32 oz) quarts or 6 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 4 lb boneless beef chuck
 1/4 cup vegetable oil
 3 cups diced onion (about 4 medium)
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 5 Tbsp chili powder
 2 tsp cumin seed
 2 tsp salt
 1 tsp oregano
 1/2 tsp pepper
 1/2 tsp coriander
 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
 6 cups undrained and diced canned tomatoes (about 4 14.5-oz cans)
 3 (32 oz) quart or 6 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) CUT meat into 1/2-inch cubes, removing excess fat. Lightly brown in hot oil. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft but not brown.
3.) ADD remaining spices and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4.) LALDE hot chili into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 1 hour and 30 minutes for pints and quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Green Beans Oriental

Makes about 6 to 8 servings
You will need:
 2 (16 oz) pint jars green beans
 1 10.5-oz can cream of celery soup
 1 16-oz can bean sprouts, rinsed and drained or 1 lb fresh bean sprouts
 1 8-oz can water chestnuts, drained and sliced
 2 Tbsp soy sauce
 1 3-oz can rice or chow mein noodles.

Directions:
1.) PREHEAT oven to 340°F.
2.) BOIL green beans in a large saucepan for 15 minutes. Drain. Lightly butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
3.) COMBINE soup, water chestnuts, bean sprouts and soy sauce in casserole dish. Add hot green beans and toss gently. Top with rice or chow mein noodles.
4.) BAKE at 340°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until edges are bubbly.

Home Canning Green Beans

You will need:
 2 lb green beans per quart
 Water
 Salt, optional
 Glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH and rinse beans thoroughly. Remove string, trim ends and break or cut freshly gathered beans into 2-inch pieces. Place prepared beans in a large saucepan and cover with boiling water. Boil for 5 minutes.
3.) PACK hot beans into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Add 1 tsp salt to each quart jar, 1/2 tsp to each pint jar, if desired.
4.) LADLE boiling water over beans leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 20 minutes for pints and 25 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Note: The processing time given applies only to young, tender pods. Beans that have almost reached the “shell-out” stage require a longer processing time. Increase processing time 15 minutes for pints and 20 minutes for quarts.

Home Canning Ginger Pear Preserves

Makes about 7 (8 oz) half pints




You will need:
 5-1/2 cups finely chopped cored peeled pears (about 8 medium)
 Grated zest and juice of 3 limes
 2-1/3 cups granulated sugar
 1 Tbsp freshly grated gingerroot
 7 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE pears, lime zest and juice, sugar and gingerroot in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Boil, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and test gel. If preserves break from spoon in a sheet or flake, it is at the gel stage. Skim off foam. If your mixture has not reached the gel stage, return the pan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 5 minutes. Repeat gel stage test and cooking as needed.
3.) LADLE hot preserves into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Fresh Herb Jelly

Makes about 5 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 2 cups loosely packed coarsely chopped herbs
 1 1/2 cups unsweetened apple juice or dry white wine
 1 cup water
 1 cup white wine vinegar
 1 1.75 oz pkg Ball® Original Fruit Pectin
 5 1/4 cups sugar
 5 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) COMBINE herbs, apple juice, water and vinegar in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat, cover and let steep for 15 minutes. Stir well, pressing herbs to extract flavor.
2.) TRANSFER herb mixture to a dampened jelly bag or a strainer lined with several layers of dampened cheesecloth set over a deep bowl. Let drip, undisturbed, for 30 minutes. Measure 3 1/4 cups herbed juice.
3.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
4.) TRANSFER herb juice to a clean large, deep stainless steel saucepan. Whisk in pectin until dissolved. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Add sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil hard, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from heat and quickly skim off foam.
5.) LADLE hot jelly into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Fresh Apricot Jam

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 3-1/2 cups finely chopped apricots (about 30 medium)
 1/3 cup lemon juice
 1 3-oz pouch Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin
 1/2 tsp butter or margarine, optional
 5-3/4 cups sugar
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE prepared apricots with lemon juice and sugar in a 6- or 8-quart saucepan. Add up to 1/2 tsp butter or margarine to reduce foaming, if desired. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring frequently.
3.) ADD pectin, immediately squeezing entire contents from pouch. Continue hard boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary
4.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Dill Sandwich Slices

Makes about 5 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 3 Tbsp pickling spice
 4 cups cider vinegar
 4 cups water
 3/4 cup sugar
 1/2 cup Ball® Preserving & Pickling Salt
 5 bay leaves
 5 cloves garlic
 2 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
 5 heads fresh dill
 13 1/3 cups sliced trimmed pickling cucumbers (1/4-inch lengthwise slices)
 5 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) TIE pickling spice in a square of cheesecloth, creating a spice bag.
3.) COMBINE vinegar, water, sugar, pickling salt and spice bag in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt. Reduce heat and boil gently for 15 minutes, until spices have infused the liquid.
4.) PLACE1 bay leaf, 1 garlic clove, 1/2 tsp mustard seeds and 1 head of dill into each jar. Pack cucumber slices into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot pickling liquid into jar to cover cucumbers leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and re-measure headspace. If needed, add more pickling liquid to meet recommended headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Dill Pickles

Makes 4 (32 oz) quarts or 8 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 7 lb pickling cucumbers (about 28 small to medium)
 6 cups water
 2-1/2 cups vinegar
 1 5-oz pkg Ball® Simple Creations® Kosher Dill Pickle Mix
 4 (32 oz) quart or 8 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) CUT ends off cucumbers. Cut into spears.
3.) COMBINE water, vinegar and contents of package in a medium saucepan. Heat to a boil.
4.) PACK cucumber spears into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot pickling liquid over cucumbers leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Note: For added crispness, soak cut cucumbers in ice water for 4 hours before preparing recipe. For added flavor, allow pickles to stand for 4 to 6 weeks.

Home Canning Cranberry Mustard

Makes about 7 (4 oz) jars
You will need:
 1 cup red wine vinegar
 2/3 cup yellow mustard seeds
 1 cup water
 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
 2-3/4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (about 2 12-oz bag)
 3/4 cup sugar
 1/4 cup dry mustard
 2-1/2 tsp ground allspice
 7 (4 oz) glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:
1.) BRING vinegar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat and add mustard seeds. Cover and let stand at room temperature until seeds have absorbed most of the moisture, about 1-1/2 hours
2.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
3.) COMBINE mustard seeds and liquid, water and Worcestershire sauce in a food processor or blender. Process until slightly grainy. Add cranberries and blend until chopped.
4.) BRING cranberry mixture to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Whisk in sugar, dry mustard and allspice. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until volume is reduced by a third, about 15 minutes.
5.) LADLE hot mustard into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Cranberry Ketchup

Makes about 8 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 11 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
 2 cups chopped onions
 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
 1 1/2 cups water
 3 cups lightly packed brown sugar
 1 cup vinegar
 2 tsp dry mustard
 1 tsp ground cloves
 1 tsp salt
 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
 1/2 tsp ground allspice
 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
 8 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) COMBINE cranberries, onions, garlic and water in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and boil gently for 6 to 10 minutes, until cranberries pop and become soft.
2.) TRANSFER mixture to a blender or food processor fitted with a metal blade, working in batches, and purée until smooth.
3.) RETURN mixture to saucepan. Add brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, cloves, salt, black pepper, allspice and cayenne. Bring to boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring frequently, until mixture is almost the consistency of commercial ketchup, about 30 minutes.
4.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
5.) LADLE hot ketchup into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and re-measure headspace. If needed, add more ketchup to meet recommended headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Cinnamon Watermelon Rind Pickles

Makes about 4 to 5 (16 oz) pints


You will need:
 16 cups sliced peeled watermelon rind* (about 2 medium)
 1 cup pickling or canning salt
 8 cups cool water, divided
 6 cups granulated sugar
 4 cups white vinegar
 3 cinnamon sticks, broken in half
 4 to 5 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


*To prepare watermelon rind, remove dark green peel from watermelon rind and discard. Cut rind into 2- x 1-inch slices.

Directions:
DAY 1
1.) LAYER watermelon rind and salt in a large crock, glass or stainless steel bowl. Add 4 cups of the cool water. Place a large clean inverted plate on top of the rind and weigh down with two or three quart jars filled with water and capped. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

DAY 2
1.) TRANSFER rind to a colander placed over a sink. Drain and rinse in cool running water. Drain and rinse again. Drain throroughly.
2.) COMBINE rind with remaining 4 cups cool water in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and boil gently until rind is fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3.) COMBINE sugar, vinegar and cinnamon stick halves in a clean large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat and boil gently for 5 minutes, until cinnamon has infused the liquid. Add drained rind and return to a boil. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour, until watermelon is translucent. Discard cinnamon sticks.
4.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
5.) PACK hot rind into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot pickling liquid into jar to cover rind leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Cinnamon Pears in Apple Juice

You will need:
 1 to 1-1/2 lb pears (3 to 5 medium) per pint
 Cinnamon sticks
 Unsweetened apple juice
 Glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH pears. Drain. Peel, core and cut into halves. Treat to prevent browning.
3.) COOK pears in water one layer at a time until hot throughout. Heat apple juice to a boil.
4.) PACK hot pears, cavity side down, into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Place 1 cinnamon stick in each jar.
5.) LADLE hot juice over pears leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Chocolate Raspberry Sundae Topper

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 1/2 cup sifted unsweetened cocoa powder
 1 1.75-oz pkg Ball® Original Fruit Pectin
 4-1/2 cups crushed red raspberries
 6-3/4 cups granulated sugar
 4 Tbsp. lemon juice
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE cocoa powder and pectin in a medium glass bowl, stirring until evenly blended. Set aside.
3.) COMBINE crushed raspberries and lemon juice in a large stainless steel saucepan. Whisk in pectin mixture until dissolved. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Add sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off foam.
4.) LADLE hot sundae topper into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Chicken Stock

Makes about 4 (32 oz) quarts or 8 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 1 3- to 4-lb chicken, cut into pieces
 16 cups water
 2 stalks celery
 2 medium onions, quartered
 1 Tbsp salt
 10 peppercorns
 2 bay leaves
 4 (32 oz) quart or 8 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE chicken and water in a large saucepot. Bring to a boil. Add remaining ingredients. Return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 2 hours or until chicken is tender. Remove from heat. Skim off foam.
3.) REMOVE chicken from stock, reserving chicken for another use. Strain stock through a sieve or several layers of cheesecloth. Allow stock to cool until fat solidifies. Skim off fat.
4.) HEAT stock to a boil.
5.) LADLE hot stock into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 20 minutes for pints and 25 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Chicken Soup

Makes about 4 (32 oz) quarts or 8 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 16 cups chicken stock
 3 cups diced chicken (about 1 3-lb chicken)
 1-1/2 cups diced celery (about 2 stalks)
 1-1/2 cups sliced carrots (about 3 medium)
 1 cup diced onion (about 1 medium)
 Salt, optional
 Pepper, optional
 3 chicken bouillon cubes, optional
 4 (32 oz) quart or 8 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE chicken stock, chicken, celery, carrots and onion in a large saucepot. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, if desired. Add bouillon cubes, if desired. Cook until bouillon cubes are dissolved.
3.) LADLE hot soup into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 1 hour and 15 minutes for pints and 1 hour and 30 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Cherry Pie Filling

Makes about 4 (32 oz) quarts or 8 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 15 cups frozen red tart cherries (about 10 lbs), thawed for 24 hours in the refrigerator
 3-1/2 cups sugar
 1 cup ClearJel® starch
 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
 1/4 cup lemon juice
 4 (32 oz) quart or 8 (16 oz) pint preserving jars



Directions:
1.) DRAIN thawed cherries in a colander, placed over a large bowl, stirring occasionally, until 8 cups of juice have been collected, about 2 hours. Set liquid and cherries aside.
2.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready to use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
3.) WHISK together 4 cups cherry liquid, sugar, ClearJel® and cinnamon in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Boil until thickened and mixture begins to bubble. Add lemon juice. Return to a boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add reserved cherries all at once. Return to a boil, stirring constantly but gently. Remove from heat.
4.) LADLE hot pie filling into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner 35 minutes for pints and quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Carrots

You will need:
 1 to 1-1/2 lb (about 6 to 9 medium with 1- to 1 1/2-inch diameter) carrots per pint jar
 Salt, optional
 Water
 Pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH peel carrots. Wash again. Cut carrots into slices or leave whole.
3.) PACK carrots tightly into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Add 1 tsp salt to each quart jar, 1/2 tsp to each pint jar, if desired.
4.) LADLE boiling water over carrots leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 25 minutes for pints, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Carrot Cake Jam

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 1-1/2 cups finely grated peeled carrots
 1-1/2 cups chopped cored peeled pears
 1-3/4 cups chopped pineapple, including juice
 3 Tbsp lemon juice
 1 tsp ground cinnamon
 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
 1/2 tsp ground cloves
 1 (1.75 oz) pkg Ball® Original Fruit Pectin
 6-1/2 cups sugar
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE carrots, pears, pineapple with juice, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a 6- or 8-quart saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat, cover and boil gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and whisk in pectin until dissolved. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring frequently.
3.) ADD sugar all at once and return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary.
4.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Bruschetta

Makes about 7 (8 oz) half pints
You will need:
 5 cloves garlic, minced
 1 cup dry white wine
 1 cup white wine vinegar
 1/2 cup water
 2 Tbsp sugar
 2 Tbsp dried basil
 2 Tbsp dried oregano
 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
 9 cups chopped cored peeled plum tomatoes (about 4 lb or 12 medium)
 7 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE garlic, wine, wine vinegar, water, sugar, basil, oregano and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 5 minutes or until garlic is heated through. Remove from heat.
3.) PACK tomatoes into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot vinegar mixture over tomatoes leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Bread & Butter Pickles

Makes 4 (32 oz) quarts or 8 (16 oz) pints
You will need:
 7 lb pickling cucumbers (about 28 small to medium)
 5 cups vinegar
 5 cups sugar
 1 3.5-oz pkg Ball® Simple Creations® Bread & Butter Pickle Mix ( I use)
 4 (32 oz) quart or 8 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) CUT cucumbers into 1/2-inch thick slices, discarding ends. Combine vinegar, sugar and contents of package in a medium saucepan. Heat to a boil.
3.) PACK cucumber slices into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot pickling liquid over cucumbers leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.


Note: For added crispness, soak cut cucumbers in ice water for 4 hours before preparing recipe. For added flavor, allow pickles to stand for 4 to 6 weeks.

Home Canning Brandied Apple Rings

Makes about 6 (16 oz) pints


You will need:
 4 cups granulated sugar
 3 cups water
 1 Tbsp red food coloring, optional
 4-1/2 lb firm red apples, cored, cut into 1/4 inch rings, treated to prevent browning* and drained (about 14 medium)
 1 cup brandy
 6 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE sugar and water in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring to dissolve sugar, about 5 minutes. Add food coloring, if using, and apple rings and return to a boil. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring occasionally, until apples are slightly tender and, if using food coloring, the desired shade of red, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
3.) REMOVE apple rings from syrup using a slotted spoon, and place in a large glass or stainless steel bowl. Return syrup to a boil over high heat. Remove from heat and stir in brandy.
4.) PACK hot apple rings loosely into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot syrup into jars to cover apple rings leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Blueberry Syrup

Makes about 3 (16 oz) pints


You will need:
 8 cups blueberries , crushed (about 3-1/2 lb)
 6 cups water, divided
 1 Tbsp lemon zest
 3 cups granulated sugar
 2 Tbsp lemon juice
 3 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) COMBINE blueberries, 2 cups of the water and lemon zest in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat and boil gently for 5 minutes.
2.) TRANSFER to a dampened jelly bag or a strainer lined with several layers of cheesecloth set over a deep bowl. Let drip, undisturbed, for at least 2 hours.
3.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
4.) COMBINE sugar and remaining 4 cups water in a clean large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar, and cook until temperature reaches 230°F, adjusting for altitude. Add blueberry juice. Increase heat to high, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
5.) LADLE hot syrup into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Blueberry Citrus Conserve

Makes about 4 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 4 cups sugar
 2 cups water
 1 small lemon (unpeeled), seeded and thinly sliced
 1/2 cup orange (unpeeled), seeded and thinly sliced
 1/2 cup raisins
 4 cups blueberries
 4 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE sugar and water in a large, deep stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Add lemon and orange slices and raisins. Reduce heat and boil gently for 5 minutes. Add blueberries, increase heat to high and return to boil. Boil hard, stirring constantly, for 5 to 10 minutes, until mixture thickens. Remove from heat and test gel. If gel stage has been reached, skim off foam.
3.) LADLE hot conserve into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Blackberries in Framboise

Makes about 4 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 6 cups blackberries, divided
 Water
 2 cups sugar
 1 cinnamon stick (about 4 inches), broken into pieces
 1 tbsp grated lemon zest
 1/2 tsp fresh grated nutmeg
 1/2 cup framboise or other raspberry liqueur
 4 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PLACE 2 cups of blackberries in a stainless steel saucepan. Using a potato masher, crush slightly. Add 3 tbsp water. Cover and boil gently over medium-low heat until fruit is soft, about 2 minutes. Strain though a dampened jelly bag or a strainer lined with several layers of dampened cheesecloth set over a glass measure to collect 1/2 cup blackberry juice.
2.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
3.) COMBINE sugar, cinnamon stick pieces, lemon zest, nutmeg and 2 cups water in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and boil gently for 5 minutes. Strain and return syrup to saucepan. Add blackberry juice, remaining blackberries and framboise. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly but gently so as not to crush blackberries.
4.) PACK hot blackberries into hot jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace, using a slotted spoon. Ladle hot syrup into jar to cover blackberries leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and re-measure headspace. If needed, add more syrup to meet recommended headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Black Raspberry Jelly

Makes about 6 (8 oz) half pints

You will need:
 3 cups prepared berry juice (about 5 pints)
 1/4 cup lemon juice
 1 3-oz pouch Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin
 1/2 tsp butter or margarine, optional
 5 cups sugar
 6 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE black raspberries by crushing one layer at a time with a potato masher. Place prepared black raspberries in dampened jelly bag or several layers of dampened cheesecloth. Let juice drip, undisturbed, for at least 2 hours or overnight. Note: Squeezing the jelly bag may cause jelly to be cloudy.
2.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside. Measure juice and other ingredients. If you need more juice, simply add water to fruit pulp and extract.
3.) COMBINE prepared juice with lemon juice and sugar in a 6- or 8-quart saucepan. Add up to 1/2 tsp butter or margarine to reduce foaming, if desired. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring frequently.
4.) ADD pectin, immediately squeezing entire contents from pouch. Continue hard boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary.
5.) LADLE hot jelly into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Black Raspberry Jam

Makes about 8 (8 oz) half pints


You will need:
 3-1/2 cups crushed black raspberries (about 5 pints)
 1/4 cup lemon juice
 1 3-oz pouch Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin
 1/2 tsp butter or margarine, optional
 7 cups sugar
 8 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE prepared berries with lemon juice and sugar in a 6- or 8-quart saucepan. Add up to 1/2 tsp butter or margarine to reduce foaming, if desired. Bring mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, over high heat, stirring frequently.
3.) ADD pectin, immediately squeezing entire contents from pouch. Continue hard boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Skim foam if necessary
4.) LADLE hot jam into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Black Forest Macaroon Conserve

Makes about 7 (8 oz) half pints


You will need:
 4 cups sugar
 1/3 cup sifted cocoa powder
 3-1/2 cups coarsely chopped pitted fresh or thawed frozen sweet cherries (about 3 lb)
 2 Tbsp lemon juice
 2 3-oz pouches Ball® Liquid Fruit Pectin
 1/3 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
 4 Tbsp Kirsh or cherry brandy
 7 (8 oz) half pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE sugar and cocoa powder in a medium bowl. Set aside. Combine cherries, lemon juice and cocoa mixture in a large saucepan. Bring to a full rolling bowl that cannot be stirred down, stirring constantly. Stir in pectin. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add coconut and Kirsh, stirring well. Skim foam if necessary.
3.) LADLE hot conserve into hot jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Beef Stock

Makes about 4 (16 oz) pints or 2 (32 oz) quarts


You will need:
 4 lbs meaty beef bones
 8 cups water
 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 1 carrot, sliced
 1 stalk celery, sliced
 1 bay leaf
 Salt
 Beef bouillon cubes or granules, optional
 4 (16 oz) pint or 2 (32 o) quart glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) COMBINE beef bones and water in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and skim foam. Add onion, carrot, celery, bay leaf and salt to taste. Cover and boil gently for 2 to 3 hours or until desired flavor is reached. (For straonger flavor, boil longer and add beef bouillon cubes.)
2.) REMOVE beef bones and discard. Strain stock through a fine sieve or cheesecloth-lined strainer. Discard vegetables and bay leaf. Allow stock to cool until fat solidifies. Skim off fat.
3.) PREPARE weighted-gauge pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
4.) HEAT stock to a boil.
5.) LADLE hot stock into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 20 minutes for pints and 25 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Beef Stew

Makes about 7 (32 oz) quarts or 14 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 4 to 5 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
 12 cups cubed and peeled potatoes (about 12 medium)
 8 cups sliced carrots (about 16 small)
 3 cups chopped celery (about 5 stalks)
 3 cups chopped onion (about 4 small)
 1-1/2 Tbsp salt
 1 tsp thyme
 1/2 tsp pepper
 Water
 7 (32 oz) quart or 14 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands


Directions:
1.) PREPARE pressure canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) BROWN meat in oil in a large saucepot. Add vegetables and seasonings to browned meat. Cover with boiling water. Bring stew to a boil. Remove from heat.
3.) LADLE hot stew into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
4.) PROCESS filled jars in a pressure canner at 10 pounds pressure 1 hour and 15 minutes for pints and 1 hour and 30 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Basil-Garlic Tomato Sauce

Makes about 7 (16 oz) pints

You will need:
 20 lb tomatoes (about 60 medium)
 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 large)
 8 cloves garlic, minced
 1 Tbsp olive oil
 1/4 cup finely minced, fresh basil
 Bottled lemon juice
 7 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) WASH tomatoes; drain. Remove core and blossom ends. Cut into quarters. Set aside.
3.) SAUTE onion and garlic in olive oil until transparent. Add tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4.) PUREE tomato mixture in a food processor or blender, working in batches. Strain puree to remove seeds and peel.
5.) COMBINE tomato puree and basil in large saucepot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until volume is reduced by half, stirring to prevent sticking.
6.) ADD 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot jar. Ladle hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.
7.) PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Barbecue Sauce

Makes about 3 (16 oz) pints




You will need:
 20 cups chopped cored peeled tomatoes (about 21 medium)
 2 cups finely chopped onions (about 3 to 4 medium)
 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
 1 Tbsp hot pepper flakes
 1 Tbsp celery seeds
 1-1/2 cups lightly packed brown sugar
 1 cup white vinegar
 1/3 cup lemon juice
 2 Tbsp salt
 1-1/2 Tbsp ground mace or nutmeg
 1 Tbsp dry mustard
 1 tsp ground ginger
 1 tsp ground cinnamon
 3 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) COMBINE tomatoes, onions, garlic, hot pepper flakes and celery seeds in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat, cover and boil gently until vegetables are soft, about 30 minutes.
2.) TRANSFER mixture, working in batches, to a sieve placed over a glass or stainless steel bowl and press with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid and pulp. This can also be done using a food mill. Discard solids.
3.) RETURN liquid and pulp to saucepan. Add brown sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, mace, mustard, ginger and cinnamon. Return to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring frequently, until mixture is thickened to the consistency of a thin commercial barbecue sauce, about 30 minutes.
4.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
5.) LADLE hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Applesauce

Makes about 8 (16 oz) pints


You will need:
 12 lbs apples, peeled, cored, quartered, treated to prevent browning* and drained (about 36 medium)
 Water
 3 cups granulated sugar, optional
 4 Tbsp lemon juice
 8 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) COMBINE apples with just enough water to prevent sticking in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and boil gently, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 20 minutes, until apples are tender (time will depend upon the variety of apple and their maturity). Remove from heat and let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
3.) TRANSFER apples, working in batches, to a food mill or a food processor fitted with a metal blade and purée until smooth.
4.) RETURN apple purée to saucepan. Add sugar, if using, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Maintain a gentle boil over low heat while filing jars.
5.) LADLE hot applesauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
6.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Apples in Syrup

Makes about 8 (16 oz) pints or 4 (32 oz) quarts


You will need:
 10-12 lbs apples, stemmed, peeled, cored and quartered, treated to prevent browning* and drained (about 30-36 medium)
 1 batch hot light or medium syrup
 8 (16 oz) pint or 4 (32 oz) quart glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) PREPARE syrup by combining 2-1/4 cups sugar and 5-1/4 cups water for light or 3-1/4 cups sugar and 5 cups water for medium in a stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Reduce heat to low and keep warm until needed, taking care not to boil down.
3.) COMBINE apples and syrup in a large stainless steel saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and boil gently for 5 minutes, until heated through.
4.) PACK hot apples into hot jars, using a slotted spoon, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot syrup into jar to cover apples leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.
5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 20 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Home Canning Apple Pie Filling

Makes about 7 (16 oz) pints


You will need:
 12 cups sliced peeled cored apples, treated to prevent browning* and drained (about 12 medium)
 Water
 2-3/4 cups granulated sugar
 3/4 cup ClearJel® (cooking starch used for preserving)
 1-1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
 2-1/2 cups unsweetened apple juice
 1-1/4 cups cold water
 1/2 cup lemon juice
 7 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands



Directions:
1.) PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.
2.) BLANCH apple slices, working with 6 cups at a time, in a large pot of boiling water for 1 minute. Remove with a slotted spoon and keep warm in a covered bowl.
3.) COMBINE sugar, ClearJel®, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large stainless steel saucepan. Stir in apple juice and cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, and cook until misture thickens and begins to bubble. Add lemon juice, return to a boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Drain apple slices and immediately fold into hot mixture. Before processing, heat, stirring, until apples are heated through.

4.) LADLE hot pie filling into hot jars leaving 1 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center lid on jar. Apply band until fit is fingertip tight.

5.) PROCESS jars in a boiling water canner for 25 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

Homemade Canned Spaghetti Sauce

My husband and I decided to make our own spaghetti sacue. I searched high and low for a sauce that sounded really good with the ingredance I wanted to use. What a challenge that turned out to be. I found this one, I wanted to share with you. We pealed 22 pound of tomatoes yesterday and today we are making this sauce. I will let you know how it turned out.


Select Ingredients
•Select all of your ingredients for your homemade canned spaghetti sauce. Choose fresh or canned tomatoes; green and yellow onions; green, red or orange bell peppers; celery; carrots; mushrooms; shallots and garlic. Add fresh or dried herbs and spices like bay leaves, parsley, sage, basil, marjoram, rosemary, oregano, thyme, pepper (red, black or white) and salt. Choose a red wine to add to your sauce, if desired. If you don't want to use your own herbs and spices, then buy several seasoning packets.
Prepare the Sauce
•Remove the skin, tops and seeds of fresh tomatoes if you use fresh tomatoes. You can place three to five fresh tomatoes at a time in boiling water for 30 to 45 seconds and then put them into an ice bath to make them easier to peel. Then, cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds and tops. Place them on paper towels to drain the excess water. Then, place the tomatoes into one or more large bowls. Chop all of your herbs and spices (except the bay leaves) and add them to your tomatoes. Add chopped up vegetables (except mushrooms) and other desired seasonings to the tomatoes and blend the mixture together in batches in a blender or food processor. Slice the mushrooms. Pour the tomato sauce mixture into a pot, add sliced mushrooms and bay leaves and simmer on the stove for at least three hours or until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. Discard the bay leaves after cooking.

Cool the sauce for 30 minutes to an hour.
Canning Procedure
•Sterilize several pint- or quart-sized canning jars and lids in boiling water or on the hottest cycle of your dishwasher. Allow the jars to completely cool before you touch them. Pour the homemade spaghetti sauce into the jars to about ¼ inch from the top and place the lids and rings on the jars. Place all of your jars in a boiling-water bath for 30 to 40 minutes to seal the jars. Turn off the heat and allow the jars to come to room temperature in the pot. Screw the lids down tight. Store the cooled jars in a pantry, cabinet or other cool and dry place.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Honey Granola

Ingredients

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup unprocessed bran
1/2 cup raisins, optional

Directions

In a 9-in. square baking pan, combine honey, butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir in oats and bran. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Stir in raisins if desired. Cool. Store in covered container. Yield: about 3 cups.

Mexican Chicken Penne for kids

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) uncooked penne pasta
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1-1/4 cups salsa con queso dip
1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the chicken, dip, milk and salt.
Drain pasta; return to pan. Stir in chicken mixture and toss to coat. Heat through. Yield: 6 servings.

Kid-Size Pizza

Ingredients

2 tubes (7-1/2 ounces each) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1-1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

Roll or pat biscuits into 2-1/2 in. circles. Place on greased baking sheets.
In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, onion, oregano, basil and garlic powder; spread over the biscuits. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 400° for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Yield: 20 mini pizzas.

Kid's Favorite Biscuits

Ingredients

1 tube (12 ounces) refrigerated flaky buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup jelly

Directions

Separate biscuits; pat onto the bottom and up the sides of greased muffin cups. Bake at 450° for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove to a wire rack.
Place a scant tablespoonful of peanut butter in each warm biscuit cup; top with a scant tablespoonful of jelly. Serve immediately. Yield: 10 servings.

Kids' Sushi

Ingredients

10 Fruit Roll-Ups
10 pieces multi-colored licorice
4 cups miniature marshmallows
1/4 cup butter, cubed
5 cups crisp rice cereal

Directions

Unroll the Fruit Roll-Ups, leaving paper attached. Cut licorice lengthwise into thin strips; set aside. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine marshmallows and butter. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2 minutes or until melted, stirring once a minute. Add cereal; stir to coat.
Place about 1/2 cup cereal mixture on the edge of each roll-up; place licorice in the center of the mixture. Roll up sushi rolls to about 1-inch diameter. Discard paper. Trim edges of rolls; cut each into four pieces. Store in an airtight container. Yield: 40 pieces.

Handwiches

Ingredients

1 loaf (1 pound) frozen bread dough, thawed
2-1/2 cups finely chopped fully cooked ham
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon water

Directions

Let dough to rise according to package directions. Punch down; divide into 10 pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 5-in. circle. Carefully place one circle on a greased baking sheet.
Place about 1/4 cup ham and 2 tablespoons cheese to within 1/2 in. of edges; press filling to flatten. Combine egg yolk and water; brush edges of dough with egg yolk mixture. Fold dough over filling and pinch edges to seal. Repeat with remaining dough and filling. Brush tops with remaining egg yolk mixture.
Bake at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm or cold. If desired, cool and freeze. Yield: 10 servings.

Not Mom's Peatnut Butter

Ingredients

1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 cup finely chopped apples
1/2 cup finely chopped dates, optional
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional
8 slices bread

Directions

In a bowl, combine the peanut butter and orange juice until blended. Add the apples and dates or walnuts if desired. Spread on four slices of bread; top with remaining bread. Yield: 4 servings.

Granola Banana Sticks

Ingredients

1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons honey
4-1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons milk
3 medium firm bananas
6 Popsicle sticks
2 crunchy oat and honey granola bars, crushed

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, brown sugar and milk; cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Peel bananas and cut in half widthwise; insert a Popsicle stick into one end of each banana half. Spoon peanut butter mixture over bananas to coat completely. Sprinkle with granola. Serve immediately or place on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet and freeze. Yield: 6 servings.

Kiddo's Munchies

Ingredients

1 package (18 ounces) granola without raisins
1 can (17 ounces) mixed nuts
1 package (15 ounces) raisins
1 package (14 ounces) milk chocolate M&M's
1 package (14 ounces) peanut M&M's
1 package (12-1/4 ounces) Honey-Nut Cheerios
1 package (8.9 ounces) Cheerios

Directions

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Store in a covered container or large resealable plastic bags. Yield: 4-1/2 quarts.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Strawberry Fields Forever Salad

Ingredients

4 large nectarines, cut into 1/4-inch-thick wedges
3/4 cup Lemon-Poppy Seed Dressing
1 (10-oz.) package gourmet mixed salad greens
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
1 (4-oz.) package crumbled feta cheese
1 large green tomato, diced*
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 (3.5-oz.) package roasted glazed pecan pieces

Preparation

1. Toss nectarines with 1/4 cup Lemon-Poppy Seed Dressing.

2. Layer gourmet mixed salad greens, nectarines, strawberries, and next 4 ingredients in a large glass bowl. Serve immediately, or cover and chill up to 8 hours. Toss salad with remaining 1/2 cup dressing just before serving.

Melon-and-Mozzarella Salad

Ingredients

3 cups peeled, coarsely chopped fresh peaches (about 1 1/2 lb.)
1 (8-oz.) tub fresh small mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
3/4 cup Lemon-Poppy Seed Dressing
4 cups seeded and cubed watermelon
4 cups cubed honeydew melon
3 cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 cups seedless green grapes, cut in half
Garnishes: fresh raspberries, mint leaves

Preparation

1. Toss first 3 ingredients with 1/4 cup Lemon-Poppy Seed Dressing.

2. Layer watermelon, peach mixture, honeydew, berries, and grapes in a large glass trifle dish or tall glass bowl. Serve immediately, or cover and chill up to 8 hours. Toss with remaining 1/2 cup dressing just before serving. Garnish, if desired.

Cranberry-Nectarine Salad

Ingredients

1 (3-oz.) package Oriental-flavored ramen noodle soup mix
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup hot water
1/3 cup canola oil
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 (10-oz.) package gourmet mixed salad greens, thoroughly washed
3 large nectarines, peeled and cut in wedges
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1 (4-oz.) package crumbled feta cheese

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Reserve flavor packet from soup mix. Crumble noodles, and place in a single layer in a shallow pan.

2. Bake at 350° for 5 to 6 minutes or until toasted, stirring occasionally. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack (about 15 minutes).

3. Place cranberries in a small bowl; add 1 cup hot water. Let stand 5 minutes; drain.

4. Whisk together reserved flavor packet, canola oil, and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl. Add ramen noodles, cranberries, gourmet greens, and next 3 ingredients, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately.

Fresh Peach-Basil Vinaigrette

Ingredients

1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large peach, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Preparation

1. Whisk together first 5 ingredients until sugar is dissolved. Whisk in olive oil. Stir in chopped peach and basil. Serve immediately.

Spinach-Grape Chopped Salad

Ingredients

2 tablespoons pine nuts
1 (6-oz.) package fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed
1 cup seedless red grapes, sliced
1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese
1/4 cup light raspberry-walnut vinaigrette

Preparation

1. Heat pine nuts in a small skillet over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, 5 minutes or until toasted and fragrant.

2. Coarsely chop spinach. Toss together spinach, grapes, feta cheese, and vinaigrette in a serving bowl. Sprinkle with pine nuts, and serve immediately.

Chilled Vegetable Salad

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
3/4 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 medium-size green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 celery ribs, sliced
1 (7-ounce) jar diced pimiento, undrained
1 (15 1/4-ounce) can small sweet green peas, drained
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can French-cut green beans, drained
1 (11-ounce) can white shoepeg corn, drained
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preparation

Bring first 3 ingredients to a boil in small saucepan over medium heat; cook, stirring often, 5 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Remove dressing from heat, and cool 30 minutes.

Stir together chopped bell pepper and next 8 ingredients in a large bowl; gently stir in dressing. Cover and chill salad for 8 hours. Serve with a slotted spoon.

Spinach-and-Strawberry Salad

Ingredients

2 (6-ounce) packages fresh baby spinach
2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
Sesame-Poppy Seed Dressing
Toppings: chopped cooked bacon, chopped fresh broccoli, blanched sugar snap peas, sliced red onion

Preparation

Combine baby spinach and strawberries in a large bowl; toss with 1/2 cup Sesame-Poppy Seed Dressing just before serving. Serve with remaining dressing and desired toppings.

Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package small shell pasta
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon seasoned pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, pressed
3/4 cup olive oil
1 cup chopped fresh basil
1 (3-ounce) package shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
Garnishes: gourmet mixed baby salad greens; grape tomatoes; small, yellow pear-shaped tomatoes

Preparation

Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain.

Whisk together vinegar and next 5 ingredients. Gradually whisk in olive oil.

Add vinaigrette to pasta. Add basil, cheese, and pine nuts; toss to combine. Garnish, if desired.

Grilled Peach-and-Mozzarella Salad

Ingredients

5 peaches (not white)
3 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon chili powder
1 1/2 tablespoons tequila (optional)
1/3 cup olive oil
Vegetable cooking spray
1 (6-oz.) package watercress or baby arugula, thoroughly washed
3/4 pound fresh mozzarella, cut into 16 (1/4-inch) slices
Garnish: fresh cilantro sprigs

Preparation

1. Peel and chop 1 peach. Cut remaining 4 peaches into 28 (1/4-inch-thick) rounds, cutting through stem and bottom ends. (Cut peaches inward from sides, cutting each side just until you reach the pit. Discard pits.)

2. Process chopped peach, green onions, next 7 ingredients, and, if desired, tequila in a food processor 10 to 15 seconds or until smooth. Add oil, and pulse 3 to 4 times or until thoroughly combined.

3. Coat cold cooking grate of grill with cooking spray, and place on grill. Preheat grill to 350° to 400° (medium-high). Brush both sides of peach rounds with 1/3 cup peach dressing.

4. Grill peach rounds, covered with grill lid, over 350° to 400° (medium-high) heat 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until grill marks appear.

5. Arrange watercress evenly on 4 plates. Alternately layer 4 grilled peach rounds and 4 cheese slices over watercress on each plate. Top each with 3 more peach rounds. Drizzle with remaining peach dressing. Garnish, if desired.

Grilled Peach-and-Feta Salad: Preheat oven to 350°. Arrange 1/4 cup pecans, chopped, in a single layer in a shallow pan. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring after 5 minutes. Reduce peaches from 5 to 4, and reduce salt to 1/2 tsp. Substitute 8 cups loosely packed Bibb lettuce leaves (about 6 oz.; 1 to 2 heads of lettuce) for watercress and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for mozzarella cheese. Peel and chop 1 peach. Cut each of remaining 3 peaches into 8 wedges. Proceed with recipe as directed in Steps 2 through 4, decreasing grilling time for peach wedges to 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until grill marks appear. Divide Bibb lettuce and 4 cooked bacon slices, halved crosswise, among 4 plates or shallow bowls. Top with grilled peach wedges. Sprinkle with feta cheese and pecans. Serve with dressing. Makes 4 servings; Prep: 25 min., Bake: 10 min., Grill: 6 min.

Tortellini Salad Skewers

Ingredients

1 (9-oz.) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 (8-oz.) package frozen sugar snap peas
68 (4-inch) wooden skewers
1 pt. grape tomatoes, cut in half
Mustard-Dill Vinaigrette*

Preparation

1. Cook tortellini according to package directions. Rinse under cold running water.

2. Place sugar snap peas in a small bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at HIGH 2 minutes. Let stand, covered, 2 minutes. Rinse under cold running water.

3. Thread each skewer with 1 sugar snap pea, 1 tortellini, and 1 tomato half. Place skewers in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Pour Mustard-Dill Vinaigrette over skewers, turning to coat. Cover and chill 4 hours. Transfer skewers to a serving platter; discard any remaining vinaigrette.

Lemon-Basil Shrimp Salad

Ingredients

3 pounds unpeeled, cooked large shrimp
1 large red onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
Lemon-Basil Marinade
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
16 cups salad greens
8 Parmesan Baskets (optional)
Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette

Preparation

1. Peel shrimp, and devein, if desired. Place shrimp and next 4 ingredients in a large zip-top plastic freezer bag. Seal and chill 8 hours or up to 24 hours, turning bag occasionally. Stir in basil 1 hour before serving. Drain and discard marinade just before serving.

2. Divide greens evenly between Parmesan Baskets or serving bowls; arrange drained shrimp mixture evenly over lettuce. Serve with Fresh Lemon Vinaigrette.

Potato Cobb Salad

Ingredients

3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 (16-ounce) bottle olive oil-and-vinegar dressing, divided
8 cups mixed salad greens
2 large avocados
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3 large tomatoes, seeded and diced
12 small green onions, sliced
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
4 ounces crumbled blue cheese
6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Preparation

Cook potatoes in boiling salted water to cover 30 minutes or until tender. Drain and cool slightly. Peel and cut into cubes.

Sprinkle potatoes evenly with 3/4 teaspoon salt. Pour 1 cup dressing over potatoes; gently toss. Set aside remaining dressing. Cover potato mixture; chill at least 2 hours or overnight.

Arrange salad greens evenly on a large serving platter. Peel and chop avocados; toss with lemon juice.

Arrange potatoes, avocados, tomatoes, and next 4 ingredients in rows over salad greens. Sprinkle with pepper. Serve with remaining dressing.

Berry Delicious Summer Salad

Ingredients

8 cups mixed salad greens
2 cups fresh blueberries
1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola or blue cheese
1/4 cup chopped and toasted walnuts or pecans
Bottled vinaigrette

Preparation

Toss together first 4 ingredients; drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette, tossing gently to coat.

Coffee Frosting

Ingredients:

1 tsp coffee crystals
1/4 cup milk or cream
1/4 cup cocoa powder
5 cups confectioners sugar
6 tbs butter
1 1/2 tsp vanilla

Preparation:

Blend everything together until smooth and spreadable. Makes enough for a 13x9 cake.

Kahlua Brownies

Ingredients:

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2/3 cup flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tbs coffee crystals
1/8 tsp baking soda
1 tbs Kahlua
1 tbs vanilla

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350F. In a saucepan, melt butter and chocolate together. Remove from heat and stir in coffee, egg and extra egg yolk. In another bowl, sift together flour, sugar and baking soda. Mix dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture. Stir in vanilla and Kahlua. Pour batter into a 8x8 baking pan, and bake for 20 - 25 minutes. Let brownies cool and cut into squares.

Frozen Coffee Parfait

Ingredients:

1 cup heavy cream
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup strong coffee, hot
4 tbs sugar

Preparation:

Dissolve sugar in hot coffee, then let cool. Whip cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, blend condensed milk and coffee together. Whip for 3 minutes, then fold in the whipped cream. Spoon mixture into serving dishes, then freeze until firm (around 3 hours).
Serves 6

Easy Tartufo

Ingredients:

3-1/2 cups chocolate ice cream
1-1/2 cups frozen pitted cherries, thawed and chopped
1 cup chopped milk chocolate
20 chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
2 tsp. oil

Preparation:

Let ice cream stand at room temperature 10 minutes to soften slightly. Mix chopped cherries and chopped chocolate into the ice cream. Scoop ice cream mixture into eight balls using an ice cream scoop. Roll in crushed cookies to coat. Place on wax paper-lined cookie sheet and freeze until firm, about 3 hours.
In microwave-safe glass measuring cup, combine semisweet chocolate chips with oil. Melt on 50% power for 3-4 minutes, stirring after every minute, until melted and smooth. Remove from microwave and stir in milk chocolate chips, stirring constantly until chips melt and mixture is smooth again. Cool to lukewarm.

Place frozen ice cream balls on a wire rack. Spoon melted chocolate over each ball, coating the top and sides. Place the coated balls on waxed paper and freeze again until firm, at least 2 hours. After 2 hours, place each Tartufo in a paper muffin cup and cover tightly. They can be kept in the freezer up to 2 weeks. Remove from freezer 10 minutes before serving. Serves 8

Chocolate Lemon Ice Cream Pie

Ingredients:

1 chocolate graham cracker pie crust
3/4 cup chocolate fudge ice cream topping, divided
3/4 cup lemon curd
1 teaspoon lemon zest
6 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Preparation:

Spread half of the chocolate ice cream topping in the bottom of the pie crust and freeze.
In medium bowl, combine lemon curd, lemon zest, and 3 cups of the ice cream; beat until blended. Spoon into pie crust on top of chocolate topping. In same bowl, combine remaining 3 cups ice cream with chocolate chips and mix. Spoon on top of lemon mixture.

Drizzle with remaining chocolate ice cream topping. Freeze until firm. Let stand at room temperature 10 minutes before serving. Serves 8

Frozen Strawberry Margarita Dessert

Ingredients:

1 cup finely crushed pretzels
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup lime juice
2 Tbsp. orange juice
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
10 oz. pkg. frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed
1 cup whipping cream
2 Tbsp. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Preparation:

Combine crushed pretzels, brown sugar, nuts, and melted butter in small bowl. Press into bottom of ungreased 10" springform pan and chill until firm.
Combine all of the juices with the sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl and beat until smooth. Puree strawberries with juice in a food processor and add to the condensed milk mixture; beat until combined.

In small bowl, beat whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla; fold into strawberry mixture, then pour over chilled pretzel crust. Cover and freeze until firm. 8-10 servings

Banana Split Brownie Parfait

Ingredients:

1 (13" x 9") pan of brownies, baked and cooled
1 (3-ounce) package cheesecake pudding mix
1 cup whole milk
1 (16-ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
2 cups frozen loose-pack raspberries
2 bananas, sliced
1 cup chopped strawberries
1 cup chocolate fudge ice cream topping

Preparation:

Cut brownies into 1" squares, cover, and set aside.
In medium bowl, combine pudding mix and milk; beat well and let stand until thickened. Fold in half of the whipped topping.

In each of 12 parfait glasses, layer brownies, pudding mixture, raspberries, bananas, strawberries, and fudge sauce; repeat layers until glasses are full. Top each with a dollop of whipped topping and a raspberry. Freeze until firm. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. Serves 12