Beets are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, and canning them is a great way to enjoy their sweet and earthy flavor year-round. However, cooking beets for canning can be a bit tricky, especially for beginners. In this article, we will walk you through the process of cooking beets for canning, including preparation, cooking methods, and safety guidelines.
Preparing Beets for Canning
Before you start cooking your beets, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Choosing the Right Beets
Not all beets are created equal when it comes to canning. Look for beets that are firm, fresh, and free of bruises or blemishes. You can use either red or gold beets, but red beets will give your canned beets a more vibrant color.
Washing and Trimming
Wash your beets thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt. Trim the tops and roots from the beets, leaving about an inch of stem attached.
Peeling
Beets can be canned with or without their skins. If you choose to peel them, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. If you leave the skins on, make sure to scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Cooking Methods for Canning Beets
There are several ways to cook beets for canning, including boiling, steaming, and roasting. Here are a few methods to try:
Boiling
Boiling is a simple and effective way to cook beets for canning. Place your beets in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
Steaming
Steaming is a great way to cook beets without losing any of their nutrients. Place your beets in a steamer basket and steam them for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender.
Roasting
Roasting is a delicious way to cook beets for canning. Wrap your beets in foil and roast them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender.
Packing Beets for Canning
Once your beets are cooked, it’s time to pack them into jars for canning. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Hot Packing
Hot packing is a method of canning where the beets are packed into jars while they are still hot. This method helps to create a vacuum seal and prevents spoilage.
Cold Packing
Cold packing is a method of canning where the beets are packed into jars after they have cooled. This method is not recommended for canning beets, as it can lead to spoilage.
Adding Liquid
When packing beets into jars, it’s essential to add a liquid to cover the beets. You can use water, saltwater, or a pickling liquid. Make sure to leave about 1 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
Safety Guidelines for Canning Beets
Canning beets can be a safe and rewarding process, but it’s essential to follow some basic safety guidelines to avoid spoilage and foodborne illness. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Acidity
Beets are a low-acid food, which means they require a pressure canner to ensure safety. If you don’t have a pressure canner, you can add a acidic ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar to the beets.
Processing Time
The processing time for canning beets will depend on the altitude and the method of canning. Here is a general guideline for processing times:
| Altitude | Processing Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|
| 0-1,000 ft | 30 |
| 1,001-2,000 ft | 35 |
| 2,001-3,000 ft | 40 |
| 3,001-4,000 ft | 45 |
| 4,001-5,000 ft | 50 |
| 5,001-6,000 ft | 55 |
| 6,001-7,000 ft | 60 |
| 7,001-8,000 ft | 65 |
| 8,001-9,000 ft | 70 |
| 9,001-10,000 ft | 75 |
Testing the Seals
After the jars have cooled, test the seals by pressing on the top of the lid. If the lid does not move and the seal is tight, the jar is sealed properly.
Tips and Variations for Canning Beets
Here are a few tips and variations to try when canning beets:
Pickled Beets
Add a pickling liquid to the beets for a tangy and delicious twist. You can use a store-bought pickling liquid or make your own using vinegar, sugar, and spices.
Spiced Beets
Add some spices to the beets for extra flavor. You can use cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm and comforting flavor.
Beet Relish
Make a beet relish by adding some onions, bell peppers, and vinegar to the beets. This is a great way to use up any leftover beets and makes a delicious topping for sandwiches and salads.
Conclusion
Canning beets is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy their sweet and earthy flavor year-round. By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure that your canned beets are safe and delicious. Happy canning!
What are the benefits of canning beets?
Canning beets is a great way to preserve nature’s candy and enjoy it throughout the year. One of the main benefits of canning beets is that it allows you to capture the flavor and nutrients of the beets at their peak freshness. Canned beets can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes.
In addition to preserving the flavor and nutrients, canning beets is also a cost-effective way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. By canning your own beets, you can avoid the high cost of store-bought canned beets and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that you preserved them yourself. Plus, canned beets make a great addition to emergency food supplies and can be a valuable resource in case of a power outage or natural disaster.
What equipment do I need to can beets?
To can beets, you will need a few pieces of specialized equipment, including a large pot, a canner, and some jars and lids. The large pot is used to boil the beets and create a vacuum seal, while the canner is used to process the jars and ensure that they are properly sterilized. You will also need some jars and lids that are specifically designed for canning.
In addition to the equipment, you will also need some basic kitchen tools, such as a knife, a cutting board, and a spoon. You will also need some pickling salt and vinegar to add flavor to the beets. It’s also a good idea to have a candy thermometer on hand to ensure that the beets are properly sterilized.
How do I prepare the beets for canning?
To prepare the beets for canning, you will need to wash and peel them, and then slice or dice them into bite-sized pieces. You can also leave the beets whole if you prefer. Next, you will need to boil the beets in a large pot of water until they are tender. This will help to loosen the skins and make them easier to peel.
Once the beets are cooked, you can peel them and pack them into the jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. You will also need to add some pickling salt and vinegar to the jars to add flavor and help preserve the beets. Make sure to leave some space between the beets and the lid to allow for expansion during the canning process.
What is the canning process for beets?
The canning process for beets involves several steps, including preparing the beets, packing them into jars, and processing the jars in a canner. First, you will need to prepare the beets by washing, peeling, and slicing or dicing them. Next, you will need to pack the beets into the jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
Once the jars are packed, you will need to process them in a canner. This involves submerging the jars in boiling water and letting them process for 30-40 minutes. This will help to kill off any bacteria and create a vacuum seal. After the jars have processed, you can remove them from the canner and let them cool. Once the jars have cooled, you can store them in a cool, dark place.
How long do canned beets last?
Canned beets can last for up to 12 months when stored properly. It’s best to store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Make sure to check the jars regularly for any signs of spoilage, such as rust or swelling.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the jar. Canned beets can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to extend their shelf life. However, it’s best to use them within a few months for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I can beets without a pressure canner?
Yes, you can can beets without a pressure canner. Beets are a high-acid food, which means that they can be canned using a water bath canner. This involves submerging the jars in boiling water and letting them process for 30-40 minutes.
However, it’s worth noting that a pressure canner can be a useful tool for canning beets, especially if you are canning large quantities. A pressure canner can help to ensure that the beets are properly sterilized and that the jars are sealed tightly. If you don’t have a pressure canner, you can still can beets using a water bath canner.
Are canned beets healthy?
Yes, canned beets can be a healthy addition to your diet. Beets are a nutrient-rich food that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also low in calories and contain antioxidants that can help to protect against chronic diseases.
However, it’s worth noting that canned beets can be high in sodium, especially if you add salt or pickling salt to the jars. You can reduce the sodium content by using a low-sodium pickling salt or by omitting the salt altogether. Additionally, be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure that the beets are free from added preservatives and artificial flavorings.