Corn Salsa Recipe for Canning: A Flavorful Summer Delight
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors. And what better way to capture those summer flavors than by canning your own corn salsa? This recipe will allow you to enjoy the taste of summer year-round.
Why Can You Can Salsa?
Canning salsa is a great way to preserve the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer produce. It's a relatively simple process, and the results are delicious. Plus, it's a great way to make use of an abundance of fresh corn, tomatoes, and peppers.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the salsa:
- 6 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears)
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (roma or plum)
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For canning:
- 8 pint-sized jars and lids
- Canning rack
- Large pot for water bath canning
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the corn: Shuck and remove the kernels from fresh ears of corn. You can also use frozen corn if fresh isn't available.
- Combine all salsa ingredients: In a large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare the jars: Wash and sterilize the jars and lids. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Pack the jars: Use a funnel to fill the sterilized jars with the salsa, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace at the top.
- Process the jars: Place a canning rack in the bottom of a large pot. Fill the pot with water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil. Carefully lower the filled jars into the boiling water bath.
- Process time: Process the jars for 20 minutes in the boiling water bath. Make sure the water remains at a rolling boil throughout the entire processing time.
- Remove and cool: Carefully remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter and place them on a clean kitchen towel. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature.
- Check for seals: Once cooled, check to ensure the lids have properly sealed. You should hear a distinct "pop" as the lids seal.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce will yield the best flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: This is your recipe, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Properly seal the jars: Ensure your jars are properly sealed to prevent spoilage.
- Store in a cool, dark place: Once sealed, your corn salsa can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy your corn salsa as a dip with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for tacos, burritos, and salads.
- It can also be served with grilled meats or fish.
This homemade corn salsa is a delicious and versatile addition to any meal! Enjoy the flavors of summer year-round with this easy-to-can recipe.
