Growing up, my Nana taught me the art of canning, which has become one of my passions as an adult. She always stresses the importance of choosing the right canning jars, which I’ve come to appreciate over the years. But with the wide variety of jars available, choosing the right one for your specific canning needs can be overwhelming. I’ve been there too. So, I’ll share with you some of my Nana’s best advice when picking the right canning jars for your projects.
But before that, let me tell you first why you should pick the suitable jar to can your food.
Importance of Choosing the Right Canning Jars
Choosing the right canning jars is crucial for several reasons. Aside from the storage of your processed foods, the right jar will have a significant effect on the result. Sometimes, it even determines the success of your canning process.
Using the proper jar can be essential in maintaining the quality and freshness of your canned foodsare. Choosing a suitable container to store these items is paramount for preserving the integrity of their taste and nutritional value. The right kind of jar will help to keep these edibles secure from air, light, bacteria, and other elements which could potentially damage them.
Moreover, selecting the right container for your liquids not only helps prevent any messes or accidents but can also save you from having to replace them frequently. If you pick a sturdy vessel that fits the job well and resists breakage, it will be worth its weight in gold down the road when it comes to keeping your food safe.
Different Types of Canning Jars
Nana has an impressive collection of canning jars which she uses for her own projects, and she was generous enough to give me some so I could experiment with my own recipes. Knowing the different types of jars available gave me a better understanding of which one would be most suitable for whatever recipe I choose.
Mason Canning Jars
Mason jars are the most widely used type of canning jars. You can use them for preserving jams, jellies, pickles, and other acidic foods. These containers possess a two-piece lid consisting of a flat metal lid and a separable screw-on metal ring. This two-piece design helps securely seal the contents, allowing for efficient opening when desired.
Ball Jars
You can also opt to use ball jars, which are usually the same type as mason jars but come with a distinct shape and structure. These containers have become increasingly popular for canning food since they provide an easily accessible way to store whatever you need. Plus, their versatility makes them a great choice for any task that requires an airtight seal!
Weck Jars
Nana loves using weck jars for canning because of their unique design, featuring a glass lid and two metal clams. She finds these jars her preferred choice since they provide an airtight seal and are so easy to use. The sturdy construction of the jar and two metal clamps ensures that all foods are safe from contamination and spoilage. Nana also appreciates the classic look of these jars, which adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen countertop or pantry shelf.
Kilner Jars
The Kilner jars are my own personal favorite because of their two-piece lid and distinctive clip closure, offering a secure seal that is suitable for canning various preserves, such as jams, chutneys, and pickles. I appreciate the fact that these jars come in a range of sizes, so there’s something to suit every need.
Tips when Choosing the Right Canning Jars
Now that you are aware of the various kinds of jars available let me share with you some of my Nana’s most useful advice when it comes to selecting the appropriate one for your canning needs.
Consider the Capacity
When deciding which jar to use for your recipe, take into account the acidity of the food you are preparing and select one that is suitable for its pH level. Ensure that the jar you choose is capable of handling the acidity in order to prevent any possible damage or contamination.
Foods with a pH level of 4.6 or higher are considered low-acidic and require a jar that can withstand high heat and pressure. On the other hand, high-acidic foods with a pH level of 4.6 or lower can be preserved in jars with a regular lid and band.
Consider the Jar Size and Style
Another factor that you should consider when choosing the appropriate jar for your recipe is the size of the jar. Smaller jars are especially ideal for items such as jams, jellies, and sauces that require smaller portions. On the other hand, larger jars may be more appropriate for recipes involving fruits or vegetables that need larger amounts to fill them up. It is essential to keep in mind the amount of ingredients you will be using when deciding on what size jar you should get.
In addition to the size of the jar, its style may also differ depending on your requirements. For example, if you are looking for a jar suitable for pickling, then straight-sided jars are ideal; however, those with shoulders and a tapered design are perfect for stacking in order to conserve space. Additionally, some jars come with airtight lids, which provide an optimal seal and thus preserve the quality of their contents.
Inspect Canning Jars for Cracks
Before using any canning jar, it is essential to examine it closely and meticulously for any fractures, chips, breaks, or other damage that could potentially reduce its safety or the quality of your food. Carefully inspect each individual jar you plan on using to ensure there are no visible signs of wear that might cause a risk to your food.
Consider the Type of Lid
You should also choose a lid that is appropriate for your recipe and canning method. Two-piece metal lids are a popular choice for most recipes. However, glass lids with rubber gaskets and metal clamps may be a better option depending on what kind of product you’re trying to preserve. These types of lids provide an airtight seal that is ideal for certain recipes or products.
No matter how much you know about canning foods, it’s a must to pick the right type of jars for the task. It’ll help keep your food safely stored and fresh for a longer time. Just remember to choose jars that are made for canning because other containers might not withstand the high heat needed during processing. So, make sure you choose the right jars for canning and preserving your food items, and you’ll be good to go!
