How to Can Peaches

Preparing the Peaches for Canning

Before you can start canning peaches, you need to make sure that they are properly prepared. Here are the steps you should follow to prepare your peaches for canning:

1. Wash the peaches: Rinse the peaches under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Peel the peaches: To peel the peaches, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut a small “X” in the bottom of each peach, then place them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove the peaches from the water and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. The skins should peel off easily with a knife or your fingers.

3. Remove the pits: Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. You can do this with a paring knife or a specialized tool called a cherry pitter.

4. Cut the peaches: Cut the peaches into slices or chunks, depending on how you plan to use them.

5. Treat the peaches with an anti-browning agent: If you want to prevent the peaches from turning brown, you can treat them with an anti-browning agent. You can use ascorbic acid, lemon juice, or a commercial anti-browning agent. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Once your peaches are prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the canning process.

Preparing the Canning Equipment

Before you start canning your peaches, you need to make sure you have all the equipment you’ll need. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

1. Canning jars: You’ll need enough jars to hold all your peaches. Choose jars that are the appropriate size and shape for your needs.

2. Lids and bands: You’ll need new lids and bands for your jars. Be sure to get the appropriate size for your jars.

3. Canning pot: You’ll need a large pot for canning your peaches. A canning pot should be deep enough to hold your jars and have a rack at the bottom to keep the jars off the bottom of the pot.

4. Funnel: A canning funnel makes it easier to fill your jars without making a mess.

5. Jar lifter: You’ll need a jar lifter to safely remove your jars from the hot water bath.

6. Bubble remover: A bubble remover tool helps remove any air bubbles from your jars before sealing.

7. Clean towels and utensils: You’ll need clean towels to wipe down your jars and utensils during the canning process.

Before you start canning, make sure all your equipment is clean and in good condition. You don’t want to risk contamination or improperly sealed jars.

Canning the Peaches

Once your peaches are prepared and your canning equipment is ready, you’re ready to start canning. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Fill your canning pot: Fill your canning pot with enough water to cover your jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil.

2. Fill your jars: Fill your jars with the prepared peaches, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.

3. Remove air bubbles: Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from your jars.

4. Wipe the rims: Use a clean towel to wipe the rims of your jars to remove any peach juice or debris.

5. Seal the jars: Place a lid and band on each jar and tighten until snug.

6. Process the jars: Using a jar lifter, carefully place the jars in the boiling water bath. Process the jars for the amount of time specified in your recipe or canning guide.

7. Remove the jars: Using a jar lifter, carefully remove the jars from the canning pot and place them on a clean towel to cool.

8. Check for seal: Once the jars are cool, check for seal by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid is firm and doesn’t move, the jar is sealed. If it moves up and down, the jar isn’t sealed and will need to be refrigerated or reprocessed.

9. Label and store: Label your jars with the contents and date, and store in a cool, dark place. Canned peaches will last up to 1 year if stored properly.

Storing and Using Canned Peaches

Once you’ve canned your peaches, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their quality and safety. Here are some tips for storing and using your canned peaches:

1. Store properly: Store your canned peaches in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity.

2. Check for spoilage: Before using your canned peaches, check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or off smells. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the contents and do not consume.

3. Use within 1 year: Canned peaches will last up to 1 year if stored properly. Use them within this timeframe for best quality and safety.

4. Use in recipes: Canned peaches can be used in a variety of recipes, such as peach cobbler, peach pie, or peach jam.

5. Enjoy on their own: Canned peaches can also be enjoyed on their own as a healthy and delicious snack.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your canned peaches stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible.

Selecting the Right Peaches for Canning

When it comes to canning peaches, selecting the right peaches is important for the final product. Here are some tips for selecting peaches for canning:

1. Choose ripe but firm peaches: Look for peaches that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Avoid peaches that are mushy or have soft spots.

2. Choose freestone peaches: Freestone peaches have pits that easily separate from the flesh, making them easier to work with when canning.

3. Choose uniform peaches: Choose peaches that are roughly the same size and shape for more even canning.

4. Choose non-bruised peaches: Avoid peaches that have bruises or other signs of damage, as they may not can well and can cause spoilage.

5. Choose fresh, local peaches: Fresh, locally grown peaches will often have the best flavor and texture for canning.

By selecting the right peaches for canning, you can ensure that your final product is delicious and of high quality.