Preserving Traditions: Rediscovering the Art of Home Canning in Wilmington

Growing up amidst the lush farmlands of Southeastern North Carolina, I learned valuable lessons every day. My childhood was filled with hands-on activities, from grading bell peppers to assisting in the delicate art of food preservation. I can vividly recall long, sun-soaked days spent canning sweet corn and shelling butter beans, while my grandmother seemed to effortlessly transform fresh tomatoes into jars of homemade goodness and delicious strawberry jam. In those moments, patience was key, and although I was often impatient as a child, the rewards of our efforts—particularly during the frigid winter months—made every ounce of effort worthwhile.

A century ago, home canning was not just a pastime; it was an essential part of life. Its popularity soared during World War II, when preserving food became critical. However, as industrialization transformed our food systems, home canning saw a steady decline. Yet, a remarkable revival has taken place, particularly during the recent pandemic. While for many it may no longer be a necessity, today, an increasing number of people are drawn to canning as a fulfilling hobby.

With the rise of home gardening, more people have ample produce to preserve. Many approach canning with a sense of nostalgia or joy, eager to cultivate a skill that allows them to create and share something special with family and friends. The return to our roots—of managing and preserving the bounty of our gardens—is, perhaps, a response to our fast-paced lives. I believe there’s a certain therapeutic quality to canning; it invites us to slow down, connect with our food, and be proud of our homemade creations.

However, as enticing as the process may be, there is a growing need for education among newcomers, particularly in an age where misinformation can easily spread. Simple oversights, such as relying on untested recipes or adjusting key elements without a thorough understanding, can lead to severe consequences, including foodborne illnesses like botulism. Thus, it’s vital to become well-informed about safe canning practices. Knowing how to use canning equipment properly, sourcing confirmed recipes, and grasping the various factors that influence safety can ensure a successful and safe canning experience.

If you’re looking to delve into the world of canning, I invite you to join us for a comprehensive and hands-on class on October 7 from 1-3 p.m. During this session, we will focus on canning dill pickles—one of my favorite staples of home preservation. It will be hosted by Avery Ashley, the Family & Consumer Sciences Agent from Brunswick County, who boasts extensive knowledge in pickling, fermentation, and pressure canning. Avery brings a wealth of expertise and will be available to address all your inquiries related to home food preservation.

The class will be held at the N.C. Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum, an inviting space where you can immerse yourself in nature while you learn. All experience levels are welcome—whether you’re completely new to canning or just seeking a refresher with an opportunity to ask questions. The cost is $15, and because space is limited to facilitate interactive learning, preregistration is required. Register here to secure your spot!

As a passionate canner myself, I can assure you that there’s no better feeling than opening a jar of your own creation during the off-season and serving it to loved ones. The taste of summer preserved in a jar is something that no store-bought product can replicate. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to engage in the canning process; it’s not merely about food preservation—it’s about keeping traditions alive, fostering a deeper connection with your meals, and producing flavorful delights that tell the story of your journey in the kitchen.

A glimpse into the art of home canning

With every batch of preserves, the art of home canning becomes not just an act of creating but also a celebration of the seasons, an opportunity to savor nature’s bounty, and a way to carry on the essence of family traditions. Let’s gather together and keep these essential practices alive, creating delicious, homemade treasures that can be shared and enjoyed for many seasons to come.