There’s nothing like a bowl of homemade soup to warm you up on a chilly day. Whether it’s a comforting vegetable soup, a hearty chicken noodle, or a creamy tomato bisque, homemade soup is always a crowd-pleaser. But what do you do when you have leftovers or want to make a big batch to enjoy later? The answer is simple: can it!
Canning homemade soup not only allows you to preserve the flavors and nutrients of your favorite recipes but also ensures that you’ll have a convenient and delicious meal ready whenever you’re in the mood for it. Plus, with proper canning techniques, your soup can stay fresh for up to a year!
Here are the steps to can homemade soup:
Start with fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables, meats, and herbs to make your soup. This will ensure the best flavors and quality once it’s canned.
Cook the soup: Prepare your soup according to your favorite recipe. Allow it to simmer until all the flavors are well combined.
Prep your jars: Clean and sterilize your canning jars, lids, and rings. This step is crucial to prevent any contamination that could spoil your soup.
Fill the jars: Use a ladle to carefully pour the hot soup into the prepared jars, leaving an inch of headspace at the top.
Remove air bubbles: Gently tap the jars on a towel-covered countertop to remove any air bubbles that may have formed.
Secure the lids: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a tight seal. Place the lids on top and screw the rings on firmly.
Process the jars: Place the filled jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure they are completely submerged. Process them according to your recipe’s instructions and the altitude in your area.
Cool and store: Once the processing time is up, carefully remove the jars from the pot and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Let them cool completely before checking the seals.
Label and store: Once the jars are cool and the seals are intact, label them with the date and contents. Store them in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar.
Canning homemade soup is not only a practical way to preserve your favorite recipes but also a great way to have quick and easy meals on hand throughout the year. Just imagine the convenience of opening a jar of your favorite homemade soup on a busy day when you don’t have time to cook from scratch!
So gather your ingredients, follow these canning steps, and enjoy the taste of homemade soup even when it’s not soup season. Your future self will thank you for the time and effort you put into canning!
Share your tips and experiences with canning homemade soup in the Food Preservation forum section. Join the discussion on “How To Can Homemade Soup” and let’s learn from each other!
FAQ:
Can I can any type of soup?
You can can a wide variety of soups, as long as they have a high acid content. This includes soups with tomato-based broths, such as tomato soup or vegetable soup with tomatoes. However, soups with low acid content, like cream-based soups or meat-based broths, are not suitable for canning at home.
How do I ensure the safety of canned soup?
Food safety is paramount when canning soup. It is essential to follow proper canning procedures to prevent the growth of bacteria and potential foodborne illnesses. This includes using a pressure canner for soups with low acid content, ensuring that the jars are sterilized before filling, and following recommended processing times and pressure levels.
What type of containers should I use for canning soup?
For canning soup, it is recommended to use glass canning jars specifically designed for home canning. These jars are made to withstand high temperatures and the pressure created during the canning process. Ensure that the jars are in good condition without any cracks or chips, and use new lids and bands for each canning session to ensure a proper seal.
How do I prepare homemade soup for canning?
Before canning soup, it is important to cook it thoroughly. Ensure that all ingredients are fully cooked and tender. Allow the soup to cool slightly before ladling it into the sterilized jars, leaving appropriate headspace as specified in the canning recipe. Wipe the jar rims clean, apply the lids and bands, and tighten them securely.
How long can I store canned soup?
If properly canned, homemade soup can be stored for up to one year. However, it is recommended to consume it within 6 to 12 months for the best quality. Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or basement, and inspect them before consuming. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the canned soup.
Can I add noodles or rice to canned soup?
It is not recommended to add noodles, rice, or other grains to canned soup before canning it. These ingredients can become mushy and affect the overall quality and safety of the canned soup. It is best to add these ingredients when you are ready to serve the soup after opening a jar of the canned soup.
Can I freeze homemade soup instead of canning it?
Yes, you can freeze homemade soup as an alternative to canning. Freezing soup can be a convenient option, especially for soups with low acid content or those containing ingredients that may not hold up well during the canning process. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers and leave adequate space for expansion to avoid container breakage.
