Recipes

Not sure if your jars sealed properly? Learn 3 easy ways to test canning jar seals and make sure your food is safe to store. Not sure if your jars sealed properly? Learn 3 easy ways to test canning jar seals and make sure your food is safe to store.

Cooling your jars and knowing how to test canning jar seals are two of the most important steps in the canning process. A properly sealed jar is what keeps your food safe for long-term storage—so it’s important to check your seals before putting jars away. If you’re new to canning, be sure to read my…

Read More How to Test Canning Jar Seals (3 Easy Methods)

Not sure how much headspace to leave when canning? Learn the correct amounts for jam, fruit, and more to get perfect seals every time. Not sure how much headspace to leave when canning? Learn the correct amounts for jam, fruit, and more to get perfect seals every time.

When you’re canning jams, fruits, or other foods, one small detail can make a big difference: headspace. Leaving the correct amount of headspace helps your jars seal properly and prevents problems during processing. If you’re new to canning, be sure to read my water bath canning for beginners guide and see the canning supplies you…

Read More How Much Headspace for Canning?

Not all lavender is safe for cooking! Learn what culinary lavender is, which type to use, and how to avoid a bitter or soapy taste. Not all lavender is safe for cooking! Learn what culinary lavender is, which type to use, and how to avoid a bitter or soapy taste.

If you’ve ever come across a recipe that calls for lavender, you may be wondering—can you use any lavender, or do you need a special kind? The answer is: you need culinary lavender. Culinary lavender is specifically grown and processed for food use. It has a milder, sweeter flavor and is safe to use in…

Read More What Is Culinary Lavender? (How to Use It in Recipes)

Confused about pectin? Learn what it is, how it works in jam and jelly, and which type to use for perfect results every time. Confused about pectin? Learn what it is, how it works in jam and jelly, and which type to use for perfect results every time.

If you’ve ever made jam or jelly, you’ve probably seen recipes that call for pectin. But what exactly is it—and do you really need it? Pectin is a natural thickening agent that helps jams and jellies set properly. Without it, your jelly may stay runny instead of forming that perfect spreadable texture. If you’re new…

Read More What Is Pectin? (Types, Uses, and How to Use It for Canning)

Confused about canning salt? Learn what it is, why it matters, and when you should use it for pickling and preserving. Perfect for beginners! Confused about canning salt? Learn what it is, why it matters, and when you should use it for pickling and preserving. Perfect for beginners!

If you’re new to canning or pickling, you may have come across recipes that specifically call for canning salt. But what exactly is it—and do you really need it? Canning salt is a pure, fine-grained salt that dissolves easily and does not contain additives like iodine or anti-caking agents. These additives, commonly found in table…

Read More What Is Canning Salt? (A Simple Guide for Beginners)

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