Preserving Traditions: Rediscovering the Art of Home Canning

Growing up on a farm in Southeastern North Carolina, I learned that there’s always something new to discover, whether through hands-on tasks like grading bell peppers or simply observing the bustle around me. Among the lessons that have stuck with me over the years is the art of food preservation, a craft I appreciate far more now than during my youth. I recall long, sweltering days spent preserving sweet corn, shelling butter beans, and watching my grandmother dedicate what felt like endless hours to canning tomatoes and whipping up strawberry jam.

While I didn’t embrace the laborious process at the time, the rewards—especially during the colder months—were undeniably delicious.

A Resurgence in Canning

A century ago, canning was a foundational skill for many families—one that peaked during the tumult of World War II. However, societal shifts and industrial changes led to a decline in this practice. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, prompted a renaissance in home canning, turning it into a beloved hobby rather than a necessity. Nowadays, with more budding gardeners turning their harvests into jars of preserved delights, many approach canning with a sense of nostalgia and new-found pride in mastering an age-old technique. It becomes more than just food preservation; it is a creative outlet and a way to share homemade goods with loved ones.

Freshly canned seasonal produce ready to enjoy throughout the year.

But with a growing number of novices entering the world of canning, the importance of evening out misinformation cannot be overstated. Simple oversights—such as employing untested recipes, modifying procedures, or failing to check pressure canner gauges—can precipitate serious risks, including life-threatening foodborne illnesses such as botulism. Though home canning can be both enjoyable and safe, it’s vital for beginners to equip themselves with proper knowledge. Understanding how to effectively utilize the necessary tools, where to source validated recipes, and recognizing the key factors under control during the canning process are crucial for ensuring the safety of oneself and family.

Learning the Craft

If you’re eager to delve deeper into the world of canning, I encourage you to participate in an upcoming hands-on class on October 7 from 1-3 p.m. Together, we will be canning dill pickles and exploring various methods of food preservation. This instructional session will be led by Avery Ashley, the Family & Consumer Sciences Agent from Brunswick County. Avery possesses extensive expertise in pickling, fermentation, and pressure canning, promising an enriching learning experience.

The class will take place at the N.C. Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum. Whether you’re stepping into the world of canning for the first time or seeking a refresher, everyone is welcome. The cost is a modest $15, and preregistration is required due to limited space that accommodates hands-on activities. Register here to secure your spot.

Community members enjoying a hands-on canning class, learning traditional methods together.

Morgan King, the Family & Consumer Sciences Extension Agent at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Center - New Hanover County, also plays a vital role in promoting these invaluable food preservation practices. Her office is located within the arboretum at 6206 Oleander Drive in Wilmington, where the gardens remain open to the public for exploration daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For inquiries, you can reach her at morgan_king@ncsu.edu or via phone at 910-798-7660.

The Rise of Pickle-Flavored Products

Modern pickling has evolved dramatically, employing a brine of vinegar, salt, water, and spices to create a flavorful explosion that is both crisp and tart. In recent years, the market for pickle-flavored items has surged, with everything from tortilla chips and pretzels to meat sticks, mustard, and even pickle-flavored cotton candy enticing adventurous palates. Many are captivated by the strong flavor profiles that can liven up an array of culinary creations.

Food historians assert that pickles have been part of our culinary repertoire for at least 4,000 years. Early explorers, including Columbus, relied on pickles to stave off scurvy during their long voyages, contributing to the storied history of this preservation method that remains timeless.

Safety Guidelines for Modern Pickling

When embarking on pickling adventures, it’s essential to utilize recipes that have been rigorously tested. Safety should always take precedence; homemade pickles must be acidic enough to thwart the growth of harmful bacteria, and missteps can pose significant health risks. If you choose to make your own refrigerator pickles, ensure that you follow established guidelines through verified recipes.

Try These Pickled Egg Recipes

For those looking for a flavorful twist, consider exploring these three delicious pickled egg recipes:

1. Brine No. 1 for Dilled Eggs

   • 1 1/3 cups white vinegar
   • 1 cup water
   • ½ teaspoon dill weed
   • ¼ teaspoon white pepper
   • 3 teaspoons salt
   • ¼ teaspoon mustard seed
   • ½ teaspoon onion juice or minced onion
   • ½ teaspoon minced garlic or 1 peeled garlic clove

2. Brine No. 2 for Red Beet Pickled Eggs

   • 1 cup red beet juice (from canned beets)
   • 1 1/3 cups cider vinegar
   • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
   • A few canned whole tiny red beets (or several slices of beets can be used)

3. Brine No. 3 for Dark and Spicy Eggs

   • 1 1/3 cups cider vinegar
   • ½ cup water
   • 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
   • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
   • 1 teaspoon mixed pickling spice
   • ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke or hickory smoke salt
   • 2 teaspoons salt

To prepare, bring all ingredients (except eggs) to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for five minutes. Carefully pack no more than a dozen peeled, hard-cooked eggs loosely into a pre-sterilized quart jar. Pour the hot pickling solution over the eggs, seal the jar, and refrigerate immediately. For optimal taste, consume within three months.

As you embark on your canning journey, remember that each jar encapsulates more than just food—it holds the essence of tradition, preservation, and the joy of sharing flavors born from your own hands.