Canning is a popular method of preserving food for long-term storage. It allows you to enjoy the goodness of freshly harvested vegetables even during the off-season. One of the most delicious and versatile foods that can be canned is vegetable soup.
Homesteaders often rely on this recipe to stock their pantry with a healthy and nutritious meal option. In this article, we will walk you through a simple yet delicious homesteader canning vegetable soup recipe.
Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, peas, corn, beans, potatoes, etc.)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
1. Begin by preparing your jars and lids. Wash them thoroughly with hot soapy water and sterilize them by boiling them in a large pot for 10 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the chopped vegetables, onion, and garlic over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add in the can of diced tomatoes, broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, thyme, and parsley. Stir to combine.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Ladle the hot soup into the prepared jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top. Use a spatula or chopstick to remove any air bubbles.
6. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids on top, securing them with the jar rings.
7. Process the jars in a water bath canner for 1 hour.
8. Carefully remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop.
9. Once cooled, check the seals of the jars by pressing down on the lid. If it doesn’t move, the jar is properly sealed. If it does move, refrigerate and consume the soup within a week.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to use any combination of vegetables for this soup. It’s a great way to use up any excess produce from your garden.
- For a heartier soup, you can add in cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta before canning.
- If you don’t have a water bath canner, you can use a large pot with a lid and a rack placed at the bottom to keep the jars from touching the bottom of the pot.
Safety Precautions
- Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients for canning to prevent spoilage.
- Follow proper canning techniques and always sterilize your jars and equipment before use.
- Discard any jars with rusty lids or bulging lids.
- If the seal on the jar breaks or pops off, do not consume the food.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Step 1: Prepare your jars and lids by washing them with hot soapy water and sterilizing them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
Step 2: In a large pot, heat the chopped vegetables, onion, and garlic over medium heat for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add in the can of diced tomatoes, broth, vinegar, and seasonings. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Ladle the hot soup into the prepared jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
Step 5: Wipe the rims, place the lids on top, and secure them with jar rings.
Step 6: Process the jars for 1 hour in a water bath canner.
Step 7: Let the jars cool before checking the seals. Refrigerate any jars with broken seals.
Expert Tips for Premium Results
- For a richer flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding in the other ingredients.
- For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables before canning.
- Label your jars with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store your canned vegetable soup in a cool, dark place and consume it within a year.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.
2. Do I need to pressure can this soup?
No, this recipe can be safely canned in a water bath canner as long as you follow the instructions carefully.
3. Can I substitute the vinegar with lemon juice?
Yes, you can substitute the apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of lemon juice.
In conclusion
Homesteader canning vegetable soup is a delicious and convenient way to stock your pantry with a nutritious and hearty meal. By following the simple steps and tips in this recipe, you can have jars of soup ready to enjoy throughout the year. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and we guarantee you’ll love the results!
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