A Guide to Canning A primer for getting started with preserving
your own foods. There are only a few necessities for canning.
The USDA recommends using tempered-glass jars free of cracks,
nicks, or other defects that have a two-piece vacuum cap
consisting of a flat, rubber-lined metal lid and a metal screw
band. (Note: The flat metal lid is not reusable.) You will also
need a boiling-water canner or a large pot that is at least 2
inches taller than the largest jar you plan on processing and is
outfitted with a rack and lid. Use a jar lifter or tongs to
safely lower and remove jars. Lastly, you will need a long,
thin, nonmetallic skewer to insert into the length of the jar to
remove trapped air bubbles. Home canning kits include everything
you'll need. Quality counts! Using the freshest produce yields
the freshest-tasting results. Always wash produce thoroughly to
remove any microorganisms that may be present and that could
contribute to spoilage. And always follow a recipe from a
trusted source to the letter-