Preserve Your Food Just Like Grandma Did

Why do we still do it?

Save money: Gathering food in season and canning them for future use can save you money. In the event of economic hardship, canning food is a great way to be prepared.

Nostalgia: For many people, canning was an activity that their mother or grandmother used to do. Participating in this activity allows people to get together to carry on the traditions of their families while creating new memories. A mason jar filled with preserves or salsa decorated with rustic flare makes a great gift for anyone who enjoys homemade gifts.

Health: Today, most foods have additives to preserve it. This method of food preservation is beneficial to your diet. Since you canned the food yourself, you know exactly what you are eating. The food that you’re eating is additive free and fresh. Not only will your food be healthy, it will also be stored in safe containers. We carry a variety of mason jars which are BPA free.

To get you started, here’s a recipe for strawberry jam that is worthy of being in your pantry! 

Old Fashioned Strawberry Jam

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

2 quarts Strawberry

5 cups heaping Sugar

1/2 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Wash strawberries and remove the stems.
   
2. Chop, mash or puree strawberries and stir in the sugar. Let sit for 2 hours.
   
3. Add strawberry mixture to a large pot and cook slow over medium heat until it boils, stirring often. Then turn up the heat to med-high and boil fast for 5 more minutes or until candy thermometer says 220 degrees F.
   
4. Add in lemon juice and stir. Boil 5 minutes longer.
   
5. Pour jam into clean jars and add lids. Place in a hot water bath canner and boil for 10 minutes. Remove from water and let cool to room temperature. Store in a cool dry place for up to 1 year.