Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in various ways, from fresh eating to baking and cooking. However, their seasonality can be a limiting factor, and that’s where canning comes in. Canning plums is a great way to preserve their sweetness and enjoy them throughout the year. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of canning plums, covering the basics, equipment, and techniques involved.
Understanding the Basics of Canning Plums
Before we dive into the canning process, it’s essential to understand the basics of canning plums. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Sterilization: Sterilization is a critical step in canning plums. It involves heating the jars, lids, and utensils to kill off any bacteria or other microorganisms that may be present.
- Acidity: Plums are a low-acid fruit, which means they require additional acidity to ensure they are properly sterilized and sealed. This can be achieved by adding lemon juice or vinegar to the plum mixture.
- Sugar content: Plums are naturally sweet, but adding sugar can help to balance out the flavor and create a syrupy consistency.
Equipment Needed for Canning Plums
To can plums, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Canning jars: Glass jars specifically designed for canning, with lids and bands.
- Water bath canner: A large pot with a rack, used for sterilizing and processing the jars.
- Canning funnel: A funnel that fits onto the mouth of the jar, making it easier to fill and pour.
- Jar lifter: A tool used to lift the jars out of the water bath canner.
- Sterilizing pot: A pot used for sterilizing the jars, lids, and utensils.
Preparing the Plums
Before canning, it’s essential to prepare the plums. Here’s how:
- Wash and clean: Wash the plums thoroughly, removing any stems or leaves.
- Pit and chop: Pit the plums and chop them into small pieces.
- Remove excess water: Remove any excess water from the plum mixture to prevent a too-watery consistency.
The Canning Process
Now that we’ve covered the basics and equipment needed, let’s move on to the canning process.
Step 1: Sterilize the Jars and Equipment
Sterilizing the jars and equipment is a critical step in canning plums. Here’s how:
- Wash the jars: Wash the jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water.
- Sterilize the jars: Sterilize the jars, lids, and bands in a pot of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Sterilize the utensils: Sterilize the utensils, such as the canning funnel and jar lifter, in a pot of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Plum Mixture
Now that the jars and equipment are sterilized, it’s time to prepare the plum mixture. Here’s how:
- Combine the plums and sugar: Combine the chopped plums and sugar in a large pot.
- Add acidity: Add lemon juice or vinegar to the plum mixture to ensure it’s acidic enough.
- Bring to a boil: Bring the plum mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Fill the Jars
Now that the plum mixture is prepared, it’s time to fill the jars. Here’s how:
- Use a canning funnel: Use a canning funnel to fill the jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
- Remove air bubbles: Remove any air bubbles by running a non-metallic utensil, such as a plastic spatula, around the inside of the jar.
- Wipe the rim: Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth.
Step 4: Process the Jars
Now that the jars are filled, it’s time to process them. Here’s how:
- Place the jars in the water bath canner: Place the jars in the water bath canner, making sure they’re covered by at least 1 inch of water.
- Bring to a boil: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Process the jars: Process the jars for 20-30 minutes, adjusting for altitude as necessary.
Step 5: Let the Jars Cool
Now that the jars are processed, it’s time to let them cool. Here’s how:
- Remove the jars from the water bath canner: Remove the jars from the water bath canner, using a jar lifter.
- Let the jars cool: Let the jars cool on a wire rack, undisturbed, for 12-24 hours.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when canning plums:
- Use a pressure canner: If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can use a pressure canner to process the jars.
- Add spices: Add spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to the plum mixture for extra flavor.
- Use different types of plums: Use different types of plums, such as Italian prunes or Santa Rosa plums, for varying flavors and textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when canning plums:
- Insufficient sterilization: Insufficient sterilization can lead to spoilage and contamination.
- Inadequate acidity: Inadequate acidity can lead to spoilage and contamination.
- Overfilling the jars: Overfilling the jars can lead to a too-watery consistency and spoilage.
Conclusion
Canning plums is a great way to preserve their sweetness and enjoy them throughout the year. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your plum jam is safe, delicious, and perfect for snacking, baking, or cooking. Remember to always follow safe canning practices and guidelines to avoid spoilage and contamination. Happy canning!
What are the benefits of canning plums?
Canning plums is a great way to preserve the sweetness and nutritional value of the fruit. By canning plums, you can enjoy them throughout the year, even when they are out of season. Canned plums can be used in a variety of recipes, such as baked goods, desserts, and savory dishes.
Additionally, canning plums allows you to control the amount of sugar and other ingredients that go into the preservation process. This is especially beneficial for those who are watching their sugar intake or prefer to avoid certain additives. By canning plums at home, you can ensure that your preserved plums are made with only the freshest ingredients and no artificial preservatives.
What equipment do I need to can plums?
To can plums, you will need a few pieces of specialized equipment, including a large pot or canner, a rack or basket to hold the jars, and a set of canning jars and lids. You will also need a utensil to remove the jars from the pot, such as a jar lifter or tongs.
It’s also important to have a clean and sanitized workspace, as well as a way to sterilize the jars and lids before filling them with plums. This can be done by washing the jars and lids in hot soapy water and then sterilizing them in a pot of boiling water.
How do I prepare the plums for canning?
To prepare the plums for canning, you will need to wash and clean them thoroughly. Remove any stems or leaves, and then slice or chop the plums into the desired size and shape. You can also remove the pits or stones from the plums, depending on your preference.
Next, you will need to create a syrup or brine to pack the plums in. This can be made by combining sugar, water, and any desired spices or flavorings in a pot and bringing it to a boil. The syrup or brine should be hot when you pack the plums into the jars.
How do I pack the plums into the jars?
To pack the plums into the jars, start by adding a layer of hot syrup or brine to the bottom of the jar. Then, add a layer of plums, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar. Repeat this process until the jar is full, ending with a layer of syrup or brine on top.
Use a utensil, such as a non-metallic spatula or plastic knife, to remove any air bubbles from the jar and ensure that the plums are packed tightly. Then, wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth and apply the lid and ring.
How do I process the jars to ensure they are properly sterilized?
To process the jars, place them in the large pot or canner, making sure that they are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the jars process for 20-30 minutes, adjusting for altitude as necessary.
After the processing time has elapsed, remove the jars from the pot and let them cool on a wire rack. Check the seals after 24 hours, and store the jars in a cool, dark place.
How long do canned plums last?
Canned plums can last for up to 12 months when stored properly. It’s essential to check the jars regularly for signs of spoilage, such as swelling, leakage, or mold. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the jar.
To ensure the longest shelf life, store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing the jars in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause the plums to degrade more quickly.
Can I can plums without a pressure canner?
Yes, you can can plums without a pressure canner. Plums are a high-acid fruit, which means they can be safely canned using a water bath canner. This method involves submerging the jars in boiling water to sterilize them and create a vacuum seal.
However, it’s essential to follow safe canning practices and guidelines to ensure that your plums are properly sterilized and sealed. Always consult a trusted canning resource, such as the USDA’s Complete Guide to Home Canning, for specific instructions and guidelines.