Canning 101

Choosing a Canning Recipe

Once you know what you want to can, find a recipe from a trusted, current source. As tempting as it might be to use your great aunt’s yellowing jam recipe, guidelines for safe canning have evolved over the years.

For the best—and safest—results, follow canning recipes precisely. A tweak here or there could change the acid level and invite bacteria to grow. “But canning doesn’t require a degree in chemistry,” says Vinton. “If you follow a modern canning recipe and commonsense kitchen cleanliness, then everything will come out just fine.”