What You’ll Need
- A glass jar with airtight lids
- New lids and rings (if reusing jars)
- A boiling water canner or large stockpot with a rack
- A jar lifter
- A clean kitchen towel
Step 1: Prepare the Jars
Start by ensuring your jars are thoroughly cleaned. Wash them with warm, soapy water and rinse them well. Inspect the jars for any chips or cracks that could affect the sealing process. Once clean, set the jars aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lids
If you’re using new lids, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to prepare them. If you’re reusing jars, check the rubber seals for any wear or damage. Replace any worn-out seals to guarantee a proper seal.
Step 3: Fill the Jars
Fill your jars with the desired food, leaving the appropriate headspace as recommended for the specific recipe. Wipe off any spills or residue from the jar’s rim. A clean rim is crucial for a successful seal.
Step 4: Apply the Lids and Rings
Take a prepared lid and center it on the jar’s rim. Attach a ring and twist it until it just becomes finger-tight. Avoid overtightening, as this can impede the sealing process and affect the outcome.
Step 5: Heat Treat the Jars
Place the filled jars onto a rack inside a boiling water canner or large stockpot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the jars by at least one inch. Bring the water to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Process the Jars
Once the water reaches a gentle boil, set a timer according to the specific processing time recommended for the food you’re preserving. Maintain a consistent boil throughout the processing time.
Step 7: Remove the Jars
Using a jar lifter, carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them onto a clean kitchen towel. Avoid tilting or shaking the jars, as this could interfere with the seal formation.
Step 8: Allow the Jars to Cool
Place the jars in a draft-free area and let them cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours. During this time, you may hear the characteristic “ping” sound as the jars seal. Check for proper seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. A sealed jar should be firm and not move or make a clicking noise.
Step 9: Test the Seals
After the cooling period, remove the rings and gently lift each jar by the lid. If a lid remains intact, you’ve successfully achieved a hermetic seal. If a lid comes off, refrigerate the jar and consume its contents promptly.
Congratulations! You’ve now learned how to hermetically seal a jar. Properly sealed jars can be safely stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year, providing you with delicious preserved treats at your convenience.
Remember, always follow approved recipes and guidelines for preserving different types of foods to ensure optimal safety and quality.