Ball Canning Spaghetti Sauce Recipe: A Delicious Way to Preserve Summer Flavors
Summer is the perfect time to grow and harvest fresh produce, and what better way to enjoy those delicious fruits and vegetables than by preserving them for the colder months? Canning spaghetti sauce is a great way to capture the vibrant flavors of summer and enjoy a homemade meal any time of year.
Here’s a simple and delicious ball canning spaghetti sauce recipe that is sure to become a family favorite:
Ingredients:
- 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Sterilize Jars: Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Sterilize jars in boiling water for 10 minutes. Leave lids in hot water until ready to use.
- Prepare Vegetables: Chop onion, green bell pepper, and mince garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
- Cook the Sauce: Bring sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Remove from Heat: Remove sauce from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Canning the Sauce
- Fill Jars: Ladle hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe jar rims clean with a damp cloth.
- Process in a Water Bath: Place jars in a canner with a rack on the bottom. Fill canner with enough water to cover jars by 1-2 inches. Bring water to a boil, then process jars for 30 minutes.
- Remove Jars: Carefully remove jars from canner and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and other vegetables.
- Adjust Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Use a Food Mill: If you want a smoother sauce, you can use a food mill to remove any seeds or skins.
Enjoy!
Once your jars have cooled, you can store them in a cool, dark place. You can enjoy your homemade spaghetti sauce all year round, adding a taste of summer to your meals. Remember, always follow the guidelines provided by your local health department for safe home canning practices.
