Article content
Home canning is one of the traditional methods of preserving fruit and vegetables. Our grandparents used large pots and canning kettles, but modern times also bring more practical solutions. One of them is canning in the dishwasher, which is becoming increasingly popular. And it’s no wonder – it saves time, energy and can handle larger quantities of jars at once. If you want to know how to do it step by step, read on.
Why can in a dishwasher
The main advantage is simplicity. More jars fit in the dishwasher than in a traditional pot, so the whole process proceeds faster. In addition, you can save yourself the work of watching boiling water, because the dishwasher will take care of the correct temperature itself. Sterilization of the jars occurs evenly, and if you use the right program, you can be sure that the produce will be well preserved.
Another reason to like this method is saving money and space. You don’t have to buy a special canning pot and you can use an appliance you already have at home.
How to proceed correctly
- Prepare your jars: always wash and dry the jars thoroughly. Fill them with fruit or vegetables according to your favorite recipe – for example cucumbers, apricots or plums. Add brine or spices as you normally do.
- Loading into the dishwasher: place the jars in an empty dishwasher. Do not put any tablets, powders, rinse aid or salt – the dishwasher must contain only the jars and clean water.
- Selecting the program: choose a longer program with a temperature of 70–75 °C, ideally for approximately 2.5 hours. Long, intensive programs are suitable.
- Finishing and cooling: after the cycle ends, let the jars cool down directly in the dishwasher. This helps the lids seal properly and extends the shelf life of the preserves.
Practical tips for canning in the dishwasher
- Start the program in the evening and remove the finished, cooled jars in the morning.
- To ensure better sealing of the lids, briefly turn the jars upside down after removing them.
- The produce must always be completely submerged in the brine.
- Start with a smaller amount and try the process before canning a full batch.
Why preserve home-grown produce for the winter
Home-grown fruit and vegetables have a big advantage over store-bought ones – you know exactly where they come from and can be sure of their quality. Canning in the dishwasher allows you to keep the harvest for months. In winter, when prices of fresh vegetables and fruit are high, you will appreciate your own supplies. In addition, it’s “organic” quality without unnecessary preservatives.
Our grandparents didn’t have a dishwasher, it’s true, but the principle is the same – to preserve produce as long as possible so the family has vitamins even during periods when nothing is growing in the garden. Today people are returning to these methods and combining traditional recipes with modern technologies.
Advantages of canning in the dishwasher
- Simple and quick process.
- The possibility to can a larger number of jars at once.
- No special equipment – you use an appliance you already have.
- Even sterilization of the jars and long shelf life of foods.
- A great solution for anyone who has little time.
Conclusion: tradition in a modern guise
Home canning doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Home-grown produce can be preserved easily in the dishwasher – without constant monitoring, without large pots and without unnecessary effort. If you want to save time and at the same time keep the taste of summer for the winter months, definitely try this method.
You may find that canning in the dishwasher becomes your favorite way to store your home harvest.
