Canning Book
A good canning book is the most important tool you may need.
There
are other preserving methods books available as well.
Dehydrating information is also included in many preserving
books. A good book will
have up to date canning methods and processing information.
It is recommended that you not depend on a book that is more
than 10 yrs old.
There are books specializing on just pickling or jam
and jelly making. These are great if you want to
specialize in these areas.
Go to your local library and check some books out to get a feel
for what they have included. Try out some recipes.
A basic book like the ones i've listed below
are a really a good idea to have on hand on your own shelf.
These two are my favorites from my shelf.
The Ball Blue Book
Before
all the canning equipment and all the food you want to
preserve, this book is one of the first things you should get
for your recipe bookshelf.
It has all the basics and safety information and
many many recipes as well.
Chapters include
- Learning About Canning
- High-Acid Foods
- Soft Spreads
- Pickled Foods
- Low-Acid Foods
- Special Diet
- Something Extra (condiments, spreads and salsas)
- Freezing
- Dehydrating
- Planning Guide
With sections on common problems, a glossary and
Index this is a thorough book.

Big Book of Preserving the Harvest
Another preserving book that I own and use regularly is the
Big Book of Preserving the Harvest.
It has the same safety information that the Blue Ball Book has as well
as many more canning recipes.
Chapters include,
- Choosing ingredients
- Canning
- Drying
- Freezing
- Jams and Jellies
- Pickles Relishes and Chutneys
- Vinegars and Seasonings
- Cold Storage
- Gifts of Preserved Foods
It also includes appendixes with information on building a food
dehydrator and conversion tables.
Canning Equipment
Pressure Canner
Water Bath Canner
Canning Jars
Canning Jar Lids
Canning Funnel
Jar Lifter and Mangnetic Wand
Canning Books
Canning Kits
Other Canning Equipment
Rack
Blancher
Apple Peeler Corer Slicer
Food Strainer or Food Mill
Clear Measuring Bowl or Batter Bowl
Clear Jel
Antique Jars
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Canning Book back to Canning Equipment