By: Michelle Cahoon
Apples are a quintessential part of British Columbia's agricultural bounty. With the apple harvest season in full swing, many of us are thinking about how to preserve these delicious fruits. Canning is a wonderful way to extend the enjoyment of BC's apple harvest throughout the year. In this blog, we'll walk through the steps of canning apples so you can savor the taste of autumn well into the colder months.
The Appeal of Apples: A BC Treasure
Before we dive into the canning process, let’s appreciate why British Columbia apples are so special. The province's unique climate and fertile soil conditions yield a variety of apples, from the crisp Ambrosia to
the tangy Granny Smith. Each variety offers a distinct flavor and texture, making BC apples versatile for a range of recipes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Apples
1. Choosing Your Apples
Selecting the right apples is crucial. For canning, you want apples that are firm, crisp, and free of bruises. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are great choices. Remember, the better the quality of the fruit, the better the final canned product will be.
2. Gather Your Canning Supplies
You will need:
- Fresh apples
- Water
- Sugar (optional, for syrup)
- Lemon juice
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Large pot for boiling
- Jar lifter or tongs
- Funnel and ladle
- Clean cloths and towels
3. Preparing the Apples
Wash the apples thoroughly. Peel, core, and slice them. Toprevent browning, keep the sliced apples in a mixture of water and lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon of lemon juice per quart of water).
4. Making the Syrup
You can choose to can apples in water, apple juice, or alight syrup. For a light syrup, mix two cups of sugar with four cups of water. Bring it to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
5. Filling the Jars
Sterilize your jars and lids. Pack the apple slices into the jars, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot syrup or water over the apples, maintaining the headspace.
6. Releasing Air Bubbles
Gently run a non-metallic spatula around the inside of thejar to release any trapped air bubbles. Adjust the headspace if necessary.
7. Sealing the Jars
Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth. Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until fingertip tight.
8. Processing the Jars
Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water. Ensure they are completely submerged. Boil them for the recommended time based on your altitude (about 20 minutes for sea level).
9. Cooling and Storing
Remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towelfor 12-24 hours. Check the seals, label the jars, and store them in a cool, dark place.
Canning Tips and Tricks
- Always use high-quality, blemish-free fruits.
- Adjust the sugar content based on your preference or dietary needs.
- Keep your workspace clean to avoid contamination.
- Follow safety guidelines for canning to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Enjoying Your Canned Apples
The beauty of canned apples is their versatility. Use them in pies, crumbles, or as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal. They are also wonderful in savory dishes like pork roasts or chicken.
Conclusion
Canning apples is a delightful way to capture the essence of British Columbia's apple season. Not only does it provide a delicious treat during the winter months, but it's also a nod to the traditional methods of
preserving food. So grab some local BC apples and start canning – your future self will thank you for these jars of autumnal goodness!
