How To Can Bean Soup

Are you a fan of comforting and hearty bean soup? Have you ever thought about canning it so you can enjoy it all year round? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will guide you through the process of canning bean soup, ensuring that you can preserve its delicious flavors and nutritional value for months to come.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start canning your bean soup, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups of dried beans (such as kidney beans, black beans, or navy beans)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare the Beans

Start by rinsing the dried beans under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8-10 hours. This will help soften the beans and reduce their cooking time.

After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again. Transfer them to a large pot and add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the beans simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender. Remember to skim off any foam or impurities that may rise to the surface during cooking.

Prepare the Soup

In a separate large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, and sauté until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and paprika, and cook for an additional minute.

Add the cooked beans, vegetable or chicken broth, and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Canning the Soup

Now it’s time to can your bean soup! Make sure you have sterilized canning jars and lids ready. Ladle the hot soup into the jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on the jars, and screw on the bands until just tight.

Process the filled jars in a pressure canner according to the instructions provided with your canner. The processing time will vary depending on your altitude and the size of the jars, so be sure to follow the recommended guidelines.

Enjoy Your Canned Bean Soup

Once the bean soup has been properly canned and cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. They will be good to enjoy for up to one year.

When you’re ready to savor a bowl of comforting bean soup, simply heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. Serve it with some crusty bread and enjoy the delicious flavors that have been preserved through the canning process.

Canning bean soup is a wonderful way to have a homemade meal on hand whenever you need it. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy the taste of bean soup throughout the year. Happy canning!

Share your tips and experiences with canning bean soup in the Food Preservation forum and let’s discuss the “How To Can Bean Soup” article.

FAQ:

Is it safe to can bean soup at home?

Yes, it is safe to can bean soup at home if done correctly. Canning is a popular method of preserving food, but it’s important to follow proper canning techniques to ensure food safety.

What type of beans work best for canning bean soup?

There are various types of beans that work well for canning, such as navy beans, black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. You can choose the type of beans based on your preferences and the flavors you enjoy in soup.

Do I need to cook the beans before canning them?

Yes, you need to cook the beans before canning them. Dried beans should be soaked overnight and cooked until tender before adding them to the soup. This will ensure that the beans are fully cooked and safe to eat once canned.

Can I add other vegetables to the bean soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to your bean soup for added flavor and nutrition. Common additions include carrots, celery, onions, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices. Just make sure to follow approved recipes to ensure proper canning procedures for each ingredient.

Is it necessary to add any preservatives to the bean soup before canning?

No, it is not necessary to add preservatives to your bean soup before canning. The canning process itself preserves the food by sealing it in an airtight container. However, it’s essential to follow proper canning methods, including using fresh ingredients and sterilized jars, to maintain the quality and shelf life of the canned soup.

How long can I store canned bean soup?

When canned correctly, bean soup can be stored for up to one year. It is important to label your jars with the date to keep track of their shelf life. Additionally, always check for signs of spoilage before consuming canned soup, such as bulging lids or an off smell or taste.

Can I use a pressure canner to can bean soup?

Yes, using a pressure canner is recommended for canning bean soup. Beans are a low-acid food, and using a pressure canner ensures that the soup reaches the necessary temperature for safe canning. Always refer to your pressure canner’s instructions and guidelines for proper usage and processing times.

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How To Can Bean Soup