Canning 101

Canning is a way of life in the South. Having homemade salsa, jam, and pickles in the pantry gives me a sense of well-being; eating them is a delicious reminder of seasons past. Here is the step-by-step to master old-fashioned canning.

Materials

• Glass preserving jars with two-piece lids (I use Mason or Ball)
• Two hot water canners or two deep, wide Dutch ovens with a lid and rack
• Ladle or measuring cup with handle
• Tongs, jar lifter, or thick rubber garden gloves (my personal favorite)
• Funnel
• Lots of kitchen towels