In a world where more people are embracing self-sufficiency and sustainability, home food preservation is making a strong comeback. Preserving your own food allows you to enjoy fresh produce year-round while also saving money. Therefore, having the right resources and authentic recipes is key to mastering the art of canning and preserving. Although the internet has digitalized our lives in every aspect where information is just a click away, books still have their own importance for seeking knowledge and information. The same is the case with canning books, which hold a significant place in the canning industry as they provide essential instructions and proper preservation techniques and also empower individuals to feel confident in their ability to preserve food safely and effectively. In this guide, we’ll explore the 5 best canning books that will help you preserve everything from jams and jellies to pickles and meats.
Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving
When it comes to canning cookbooks, the Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving is a must-have. Published by Ball, the trusted name in home canning products, this book on canning offers over 400 tested recipes. Whether you’re interested in pressure canning or water bath canning, this comprehensive guide covers it all.
The Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving starts with an introduction to the basics of canning preserving, detailing essential techniques and safety measures, including proper processing time. It also covers the differences between water bath canning and pressure canning so beginners can feel confident in choosing the right method for different foods.
The complete guide offers recipes for preserving fruits, vegetables, and even meats, giving you a wide variety of options to fill your pantry. From mouthwatering jams and jellies to delicious pickles and sauces, the Ball book is a treasure trove of preserved recipes that every food preserver will appreciate.
Key Features
- Over 400 tested recipes for a wide variety of preserved goods.
- Covers both pressure canning and water bath canning techniques.
- Detailed introduction to home food preservation, including safety measures and correct processing time.
- Includes classic preserve recipes for fruits, vegetables, pickles, and meats.
The All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving
Another gem from Ball, the All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving, offers a modern take on traditional canning recipe books. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to explore new trends in home food preservation while still adhering to the rigorous safety standards set by Ball.
This canning recipe book includes a diverse range of recipes for fermenting, pickling, freezing, dehydrating, and, of course, canning. It’s a fantastic resource for those who want to move beyond basic canning and try their hand at other methods of preserving food. The recipes are all thoroughly tested, ensuring that they meet the safety guidelines for home food preservation.
The book also includes sections on preserving meals for convenience, which is great for busy people looking to make the most of their time. If you want a best book on canning that is as comprehensive as it is innovative, the All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving is one of the best canning books you can add to your collection.
Key Features
- Offers a modern approach to canning preserving, including fermenting, freezing, and dehydrating.
- Wide range of recipes for meals and snacks beyond basic canning.
- Focuses on convenience with recipes for preserving whole meals.
- Tested by Ball for safety, it is an ideal choice for experienced and novice canners.
The Complete Guide to Pressure Canning by Diane Devereaux
For those who are serious about pressure canning, the Complete Guide to Pressure Canning by Diane Devereaux is a must-read. This pressure canning book focuses solely on the process of pressure canning—a method used for low-acid foods like meats, beans, and canning vegetables.
What sets this canning book apart is its focus on safe practices and detailed instructions. The recipe book provides step-by-step guidance on using a pressure canner and ensures you understand the importance of achieving the correct pressure and processing time for different foods. With over 75 pressure canning recipes, it’s ideal for those looking to make a variety of preserved goods that can be safely stored without refrigeration.
Whether you’re preserving soups, stews, or meats, the Complete Guide to Pressure Canning will give you the confidence to take your canning preserving to the next level. It’s an essential addition to any collection of books on canning and preserving food.
Key Features
- Dedicated entirely to pressure canning, it is ideal for preserving low-acid foods.
- Step-by-step guidance for using a pressure canner safely.
- Over 75 pressure-canning recipes for meats, soups, stews, and vegetables.
- Focus on achieving correct pressure and processing time for safe preservation.
The Canning Kitchen: 101 Simple Small Batch Recipes by Amy Bronee
If you’re new to canning or prefer working with smaller quantities, then The Canning Kitchen: 101 Simple Small Batch Recipes by Amy Bronee is the perfect canning book for you. This book of small-batch recipes is designed for beginners and home canners who don’t have the time or storage space for large-scale food preservation.
The focus on small batches means that you can experiment with new preserved recipes without the pressure of preserving large amounts of food at once. The canning recipe book offers easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredient lists, making it ideal for beginners or those short on time.
In addition to its fantastic preserve recipes, the book emphasizes safety, teaching you how to ensure proper processing times and methods. With this best canning book, you can make delicious preserves like jams and jellies, or pickles in small batches. These tiny packages are perfect for gifting or personal use.
- Focuses on small-batch canning for beginners or those with limited storage.
- Simple, easy-to-follow recipes with minimal ingredients.
- Provides instructions for both water bath and pressure canning techniques.
- Great for experimenting with jams and jellies, pickles, and more without large-scale commitment.
Preserving by the Pint by Marisa McClellan
Another excellent option for those who enjoy working with smaller quantities is Preserving by the Pint by Marisa McClellan. This canning recipe book is tailored to urban dwellers or anyone who doesn’t have the space for large-scale canning operations. It features recipes for preserving small amounts of food—perfect for those who grow their own produce in limited spaces.
This book on canning covers a wide range of preserving techniques, focusing on both water bath canning and pressure canning.
The recipes in Preserving by the Pint are designed to be accessible for all skill levels. It’s one of the best books for canning if you’re working with limited space or want to enjoy small-batch preserves.
Key Features
- Ideal for small-batch preserving, perfect for urban dwellers or those with limited space.
- Seasonal recipes focusing on fresh, in-season produce.
- Covers both water bath canning and small-scale pressure canning.
- Recipes are designed for all skill levels, allowing for easy, quick preservation projects.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of home food preservation requires not only the right equipment but also the right knowledge. The best canning books offer expert advice, safety tips, and a variety of canning recipes to ensure your success. Whether you’re interested in large-scale pressure canning or small-batch water bath canning, these canning books have you covered. These comprehensive and trusted books will help you take your canning preservation to the next level whether you’re preserving jams, jellies, pickles, or meat.