Are you ready to start preserving your favorite flavors? Look no further! As a beginner, it’s essential to start with tried-and-true recipes that are both delicious and safe. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a wealth of information on home canning techniques and recipes that have been tested and perfected over the years.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful USDA canning recipes perfect for beginners. From classic tomato sauce to tangy pickles and sweet preserves, these recipes will help you stock your pantry with delicious and healthy foods all year round. Whether you’re looking to preserve seasonal produce or create tasty condiments, we’ve got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of home canning and discover the joy of preserving your favorite flavors!
Classic USDA Tomato Sauce
This recipe produces a traditional tomato sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce. It’s a simple and flavorful base that can be customized to your taste with added herbs, spices, and meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy USDA Pickled Jalapeños
Add a spicy kick to your meals with these tangy and crunchy pickled jalapeños, using the classic USDA recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 jar of USDA-certified pickling cucumbers (about 12-16 ounces)
– 2 cups of water
– 1 cup of white vinegar
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of celery seeds
– 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced into thin rings
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the pickling liquid. In a medium saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and celery seeds. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pickling liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Pack the sliced jalapeños into the prepared USDA-certified pickling cucumbers jar, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the jalapeños, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pickling liquid) + refrigeration time
Sweet USDA Peach Jam
Capture the sweetness of summer with this classic peach jam recipe using fresh USDA peaches. This easy-to-make spread is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh USDA peaches, diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the diced peaches, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the peaches are soft and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in the powdered pectin and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the jam thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a clean, sterilized jar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy USDA Bread and Butter Pickles
This classic recipe yields tender, tangy pickles that are perfect for snacking or adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches and salads. With just the right balance of sweet and sour, these bread and butter pickles are a staple in many American households.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced dill cucumbers
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pickling spice (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and sugar. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and add white vinegar, water, salt, and pickling spice (if using). Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Pack the pickle mixture into clean, hot jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Pour melted butter over the pickles to cover them completely.
5. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sterilization and shelf stability.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
USDA Apple Butter Spread
This classic apple butter spread recipe produces a deliciously smooth and tangy spread that’s perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for baked goods. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s a great way to enjoy the taste of apples year-round.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chopped apples, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Return the pot to medium heat and cook the apple butter for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Zesty USDA Salsa Verde
This tangy and flavorful salsa verde is a staple condiment from the USDA, perfect for adding a burst of citrusy flavor to your favorite dishes. Made with simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe yields a deliciously zesty condiment that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 1/4 cup garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, oregano, and garlic. Process until well combined.
2. Add lemon juice and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue processing until emulsified.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cup
USDA Strawberry Preserves
Sweeten up your day with this classic strawberry preserves recipe from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until strawberries are soft.
4. Stir in powdered pectin and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until preserves have thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Crunchy USDA Dill Pickles
A classic recipe that yields crunchy and tangy dill pickles, reminiscent of the USDA’s famous pickle-making tradition.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups (1L) thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup (250ml) water
– 1/2 cup (125ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) whole black peppercorns
– 1/4 cup (15g) dried dill weed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers and water. Let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and rinse with fresh water.
3. In a large pot, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and dill weed. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pack the hot pickle liquid into clean glass jars, leaving 1/2 inch (1cm) headspace. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Store the pickles in the refrigerator. They’ll be ready to enjoy within a few hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
USDA Blueberry Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is a perfect topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously flavorful blueberry sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. The compote is done when the blueberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
USDA Spiced Apple Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect blend of spices and apples, making it a great accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh apples (any variety)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apples, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until apples are tender.
3. Stir in cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
USDA Cherry Pie Filling
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic cherry pie filling recipe from the USDA. This simple and delicious filling is perfect for topping pies, yogurt, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry juice (such as Morello cherries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry juice, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the filling has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 1 cup of cherry pie filling
USDA Pickled Beets
This timeless recipe yields a tangy and flavorful condiment that’s perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or using as a side dish. With its simplicity and versatility, this pickled beet recipe has been a staple in many American households for generations.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs fresh beets
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and trim the beets, then place them in a large baking dish.
3. Roast the beets for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice them into 1/4-inch thick wedges.
5. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Pack the beet slices into clean, hot jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Pour the pickling liquid over the beets, making sure they’re covered.
7. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting beets) + 10 minutes (processing jars)
USDA Raspberry Jam
This classic raspberry jam recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tangy spread perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With just a few simple steps, you can create this scrumptious jam in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Rinse the raspberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a large pot, combine the raspberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the powdered pectin and stir until dissolved.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
USDA Canned Green Beans
Get a flavorful side dish on the table in no time with this simple recipe using USDA canned green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of USDA Canned Green Beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place the drained green beans in a baking dish.
3. Dot the top with butter or margarine.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
USDA Pear Honey Butter
Savor the flavor of fall with this simple recipe for USDA Pear Honey Butter. Made with ripe pears and pure honey, this spread is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup pure USDA honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pears, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the butter through a fine-mesh sieve into an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
USDA Pickled Carrots
This classic recipe yields a tangy and crunchy pickling result that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the sweet and sour taste of homemade pickled carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon whole black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the carrot slices and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the carrots to release their moisture.
2. Drain the carrots and rinse them with cold water to remove excess salt.
3. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pack the carrot slices into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the carrots, making sure they’re completely covered.
6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving)
USDA Plum Jam
Sweet and tangy, this USDA-approved plum jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With its rich flavor and firm texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups of fresh plums, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the plums are tender.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and powdered pectin.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
USDA Canned Corn Relish
This classic USDA recipe combines the sweetness of canned corn with a tangy twist, perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or using as a dip. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious relish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) can USDA Canned Corn
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Drain the liquid from the canned corn and place it in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add the chopped parsley, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the corn.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This relish is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Summary
Discover the world of home canning with these 18 delicious USDA-approved recipes perfect for beginners. From classic tomato sauce to tangy bread and butter pickles, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making sweet peach jam or zesty salsa verde. For a taste of summer, try canned green beans or corn relish. Or, indulge in the warmth of apple butter spread or plum jam. These simple and flavorful recipes will guide you through the canning process with confidence. Get started today and enjoy the fruits of your labor all year round!
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