PRESTO 0175004 Pressure Canner Owner’s Manual
- July 8, 2024
- Presto
Table of Contents
- 0175004 Pressure Canner
- Getting Acquainted
- Canning Basics
- How to Use your Presto® Pressure Canner
- Care and Maintenance
- Service and Parts Information
- FRUITS
- TOMATOES AND TOMATO PRODUCTS
- VEGETABLES
- MEAT, GAME, AND POULTRY
- FISH AND SEAFOOD
- STOCK AND SOUP
- HELPFUL HINTS FOR PRESSURE CANNING
- SERVICE AND PARTS INFORMATION
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
PRESTO 0175004
Owner’s Manual
0175004 Pressure Canner
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How to Use and Care for Your Presto® Pressure Canner
This brochure is applicable only to model numbers
0175002, 0175003, 0175004, 0178002, 0178003, and 0178004
This is a Listed appliance. The following important safeguards are recommended by most portable appliance manufacturers.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage, basic safety
precautions should always be followed, including the following:
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Read all instructions. Improper use may result in bodily injury or property damage.
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Always check the vent pipe before use. Hold the cover up to the light and look through the vent pipe to be certain it is clear.
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Always check the air vent/cover lock to make sure it moves freely before use.
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Do not fill the pressure canner over ⅔ full when using it for pressure cooking. For soups, grains, and dry beans and peas which expand during cooking, do not fill the canner over ½ full. Overfilling may cause a risk of blocking the vent pipe and developing excess pressure.
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Do not pressure cook applesauce, cranberries, rhubarb, cereals, pasta, split peas, or soup mixes containing dry beans and peas. These foods tend to foam, froth, and sputter and may block the vent pipe, overpressure plug, and air vent/cover lock.
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This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. Make certain the pressure canner is properly closed before operating; the cover handles must be above the body handles. See “How to Use” instructions.
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Do not use the pressure canner on any outdoor LP gas burner or a gas range over 12,000 BTUs. Doing so may result in damage to the pressure canner and/or property damage and personal injury.
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Extreme caution must be used when moving a pressure canner containing hot liquids. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use the handles or knobs.
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Do not place the pressure canner or attempt to pressure can or cook in a heated oven.
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Do not open the canner until the internal pressure has been completely reduced, the air vent/cover lock has dropped, and no steam escapes when the pressure regulator is removed. See “How to Use” instructions.
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To ensure safe operation and satisfactory performance, replace the overpressure plug every time you replace the sealing ring or sooner if it becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn, or pitted. It is recommended that the sealing ring and overpressure plug be
replaced at least every three years. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts. -
Close supervision is necessary when the pressure canner is used near children. It is recommended that children not use the pressure canner.
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When operating pressure is reached, gradually lower the heat to maintain the pressure. If the pressure regulator is allowed to rock vigorously, excess steam will escape, the liquid will evaporate, the canner may go dry, and the food may scorch.
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Do not use this pressure canner for other than the intended use.
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Do not use this pressure canner for pressure frying with oil.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS APPLIANCE IS FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.
Getting Acquainted
Your canner is a special, large capacity pressure vessel designed for home
canning a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and
seafood. The canner uses pressure to achieve the high temperatures required
for safely processing foods while canning.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends the pressure
canner as the only safe method for canning low-acid foods: vegetables, meats,
poultry, fish, and seafood.
Become familiar with the various parts of the canner (Fig. A). Do not attempt
to use your pressure canner before reading the instructions on pages 4 and 5.
Introduction to Parts
Note: The parts shown are not to scale.
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Overpressure Plug
The black, rubber overpressure plug is located in the canner cover. It will automatically pop out and release steam in case the vent pipe becomes blocked and pressure cannot be released normally through the vent pipe. Replace the overpressure plug every time you replace the sealing ring. This should be at least every 3 years, or sooner if they become hard or inflexible. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts. -
Pressure Dial Gauge
The pressure dial gauge registers pressure in pounds per square inch, or PSI. The pointer moves around the dial indicating the pressure within the unit. Pressure can be controlled and maintained by adjusting the heat setting on your stove. The gauge is attached to the cover with a soft, black, molded rubber adapter. The gauge sits in the center of the cover.
A new adaptor should be installed when the old one becomes hard or inflexible. Install the new adaptor by pushing the small end up through the opening from the underside of the cover. The large lip should fit flat against the underside of the cover. -
Pressure Regulator
The pressure regulator acts as a safety device to prevent pressure in excess of 15 pounds from building in the canner. Pressure readings are registered only on the pressure dial gauge. The replacement regulator ( 3 A) has a different look but functions in the same way as the original one. -
Vent Pipe
The vent pipe is the primary pressure relief valve and works in conjunction with the pressure regulator to release pressure in excess of 15 pounds. The pressure regulator sits loosely on the vent pipe. The replacement vent pipe ( 4 A) has a different look but functions in the same way as the original one. -
Air Vent/Cover Lock
The air vent/cover lock automatically vents, or exhausts, air from the canner and acts as a visual indication of pressure in the canner. The small gasket must be in place for the air vent/cover lock to seal completely. -
Locking Bracket
The locking bracket on the inside of the canner body engages with the air vent/cover lock to prevent the cover from being opened when there is pressure in the unit. -
Sealing Ring
The sealing ring fits into the canner cover and forms a pressure-tight seal between the cover and the body during canning. Replace the sealing ring at least every 3 years. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts. -
Canning Rack
The rack is placed in the bottom of the pressure canner to hold the jars off the bottom of the canner while canning. Always use the rack as the jars may break if set directly on the bottom of the canner.
Canning Basics
Introduction
The key to successful canning is to understand the acidity and spoilage
factor of the food you wish to can, as well as the acceptable canning methods
to process those foods. There are invisible microorganisms present all around
us. Fruits, vegetables, and meat contain these microorganisms naturally; yet
they are not a problem unless food is left to sit for extended periods of
time, causing food spoilage. This is nature’s way of telling us when food is
no longer fit to eat.
There are four basic agents of food spoilage: enzymes, mold, yeast, and
bacteria. Canning interrupts the natural spoilage cycle so food can be
preserved safely. Molds, yeast, and enzymes are destroyed at temperatures
below 212°F, the temperature at which water boils (except in mountainous
regions). Therefore, the boiling water method is sufficient to destroy those
agents. Foods naturally high in acid and acidified foods with a pH of 4.6 or
less may be safely processed using the boiling water method.
However, bacteria are not as easily destroyed and thrive on low-acid foods in
the absence of air. The bacteria Clostridium botulinum produces a spore that
makes a poisonous toxin, which causes botulism. This spore is not destroyed at
212°F. According to the USDA, pressure canning is the only safe method of
processing low-acid foods (vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and seafood).
In pressure canning, some of the water in the pressure canner is converted to
steam, which creates pressure within the canner. As the pressure increases, so
does the temperature: 5 pounds pressure, 228°F; 10 pounds pressure, 240°F; 15
pounds pressure, 250°F. This pressurized heat destroys the potentially harmful
bacterial spores. As the jars cool after processing, a vacuum is formed,
sealing the food within and preventing any new microorganisms from entering
and spoiling the food.
Before Beginning
Selecting Jars
Glass home canning jars, often referred to as Mason jars, are made of heat-
tempered glass for durability and reuse. These are the only jars recommended
for safe home canning. They are available in several standard sizes (half-
pint, pint, and quart jars) and will withstand the heat of a pressure canner.
The diameter of the Mason jars may vary from one manufacturer to another.
Before filling your Mason jars, test load your canner. A canning rack must be
placed on the bottom of your canner to prevent jar breakage. The jars may
touch and it is not necessary to use a rack between the layers of jars. It may
be necessary to double-deck the pint and half-pint jars to reach the maximum
load capacity of your canner. To double-deck, stagger the jars by placing one
jar on top of two. However, if using the boiling water method, do not double-
deck the jars.
Canning Lids and Bands
The two-piece vacuum cap is the recommended closure for home canning. It
consists of a flat metal lid with a sealing compound on the outer edge and a
separate metal screw band that secures the lid during processing. The flat lid
is for one use only while the bands can be used repeatedly if they remain in
good condition. Always prepare lids and bands according to the manufacturer’s
instructions.
Measuring Headspace
Headspace is the air space between the top of the food or its liquid and the
lid. Leaving too much headspace can result in underprocessing because it may
take too long to release the air from the jar. Leaving too little headspace
will trap food between the jar and the lid, resulting in an inadequate seal.
As a general rule, allow ½-inch headspace for fruits and tomatoes and 1-inch
headspace for vegetables, meats, poultry, and seafood. All current and tested
canning recipes will indicate the amount of headspace necessary for the food
being canned.
Removing Air Bubbles
After the food has been packed in the Mason jars, any air bubbles must be
removed. Trapped air bubbles may rise to the top during processing, resulting
in too much headspace. Work quickly to remove the air bubbles that have become
trapped between pieces of food by moving a clean, nonmetallic spatula around
the jar between the food and the side of the jar.
Preparing Jar Rims and Adjusting Lids
Immediately wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Any food particles, such as seeds, grease, or syrup, on the rim of the jar may
prevent the jar from sealing. Place the flat lid on the rim of the jar, making
sure the sealing compound is touching the glass. Position a band over the lid
and, using your fingertips, screw it onto the jar just until resistance is
met. Do not overtighten as the air must release from the jars during
processing and cooling.
After Processing
Cooling Jars
After processing, remove the jars from the canner and place them on a dry
towel on the countertop away from drafts. Leave 1 to 2 inches of space between
the jars to allow for even cooling. Do not invert the jars or cover them with
a cloth. Allow jars to cool naturally for 12 to 24 hours before checking the
seals.
Testing Seals
After the jars have cooled, test the jar lids to be sure a vacuum seal has
formed. Press down on the center of the flat lid to determine if it is concave
(stays down when pressed). Then, remove the screw band and gently try to lift
the lid with your fingertips. If the center does not flex up and down, and you
cannot lift the lid off, the lid has a good seal.
Detecting Spoilage
If up-to-date instructions, processing times, and canning pressures are
followed carefully, spoilage is uncommon. However, it is still recommended to
check for signs of spoilage before tasting any canned food. Check for a broken
seal, gassiness when opening, mold, sliminess, cloudiness, or unpleasant
odors. If any of these signs are present, discard the food.
As a safeguard against using canned low-acid foods and tomato products which
may be affected with spoilage that is not readily detected, boil food 10
minutes for altitudes up to 1,000 feet above sea level. Extend the boiling
time by 1 minute for each 1,000 foot increase in altitude. Many times odors
that cannot be detected in the cold product will become evident by this
method. If, after boiling, food does not smell or look right, discard it
without tasting.
How to Use your Presto® Pressure Canner
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to use your canner before reading these step-
by-step instructions for pressure canning in your canner.
Prepare food according to the processing procedures in the specific recipe and
follow the recipe and instructions carefully.
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Be sure your canner is thoroughly cleaned and working properly. Before each canning season, have the dial gauge checked for accuracy. Also check the sealing ring, the overpressure plug, and the rubber adaptor of the pressure dial gauge. Replace these parts when they become hard, deformed, cracked, worn, pitted, or unusually soft. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts.
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Check the Mason jars for nicks, cracks, and sharp edges. Check the screw bands for dents or rust. Use only jars, lids, and screw bands in perfect condition so an airtight seal may be obtained. Wash and rinse the jars, lids, and screw bands. Pour hot water into the jars and set them aside until needed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for preparing the lids.
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For recipe information, see your booklet titled Recipes and Helpful Hints for Presto® Pressure Canners. Select fresh, firm food. Sort the food according to size and clean thoroughly. Prepare the food according to the specific recipe; always use current, research-tested procedures, recipes, and timetables. Fill the hot jars promptly with food and liquid to the recommended level.
Allow ½-inch headspace for fruits. Most vegetables and meats require 1-inch headspace due to expansion during processing. Work out the air bubbles with a clean, nonmetallic spatula. Wipe the sealing edge clean with a damp cloth. Center the flat lid on the jar rim. Adjust the screw band according to the manufacturer’s directions. -
Position the canner on a level gas or electric coil burner and range only. These canners are not designed to work on electric glasstop or induction burners and ranges. If you use the canner on a tilted burner or range, it may interfere with the operation of the pressure regulator.
For electric ranges, use the element that most closely matches the diameter of the canner bottom, which is the portion that comes in contact with the element.
CAUTION! Do not use on any outdoor LP gas burner or a gas range over 12,000 BTUs. If you use an element that is too large or one over 12,000 BTUs, the canner may soften and the bottom may warp. It may also result in property damage and/or personal injury. -
Place 3 quarts of hot water and the canning basket or rack in the canner; for hot packed foods, the water can be heated to 180°F, or not quite boiling. To prevent water stains, add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar to the water in the canner.
Note: 3 quarts of water are needed regardless of how many jars are being canned. -
Place the filled jars on the canning rack immediately after each jar is filled. Always use the canning rack as the jars may break if set directly on the bottom of the canner.
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Hold the cover up to the light and look through the vent pipe (Fig. B) to be certain it is clear before placing the cover on the canner. If it is clear, proceed to the next step. If it is blocked, clean the vent pipe with a small brush or pipe cleaner (Fig. C).
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Check to be sure the overpressure plug is seated properly in the cover (Fig. D).
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Place the cover on the canner, aligning the V mark on the cover with the mark on the body handle. Press down on the cover handles to compress the sealing ring and then turn the cover in the direction indicated (clockwise) to close until the cover handles are above the body handles. Do not rotate the cover beyond this point.
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Using a high setting on your stove, heat the canner until a steady flow of steam can be seen, heard, or felt coming from the vent pipe (Fig. E). Allow this steam to flow from the vent pipe for 10 minutes to vent, or exhaust, all the air from the canner. Reduce the heat on your stove, if necessary, to maintain a steady, moderate flow of steam.
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Place the pressure regulator on the vent pipe (Fig. F, page 5). If the heat was reduced for venting, adjust it to a high setting and heat the canner. As the pressure develops in the canner, the air vent/cover lock will lift and lock the cover on the canner body. The air vent/cover lock is a visual indicator of pressure. When it is in the up position, there is pressure in the canner. When it is in the down position, there is no pressure in the canner.
As the pressure builds, the pointer will move across the face of the gauge. Continue heating until the gauge registers the correct pressure and then adjust the heat on your stove to maintain this pressure. The regulator will rock ONLY at 15 pounds of pressure. -
The processing time begins when the gauge registers the correct pressure as stated in the tested recipe. If the pressure drops below the correct pressure at any time during the processing cycle, it will be necessary to bring the pressure back to the correct setting and restart the processing countdown from the beginning for the full amount of time.
Helpful Hint: To more easily maintain pressure, reduce the heat on your stove when the gauge registers 1½ to 2 pounds less than the correct pressure. Do not begin the processing countdown until the correct pressure is reached. -
At the end of the processing time, turn the burner off and remove the canner from the burner. Let the pressure drop of its own accord. Do not attempt to speed the cooling of the canner; this can cause jar breakage, liquid loss, and other problems.
Pressure is completely reduced when the air vent/cover lock and the overpressure plug have dropped and no steam escapes when the pressure regulator is lifted. Do not use the gauge as an indicator for when the pressure is completely reduced. -
When the pressure has been completely reduced, remove the pressure regulator from the vent pipe and let the canner cool for 10 minutes. Do not remove the regulator until the pressure is completely reduced and the air vent/cover lock has dropped. Always remove the regulator before opening the cover.
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To remove the cover, turn it counterclockwise until it hits the stop tab. The cover handles will be beyond the body handles.
CAUTION! If the cover seems to stick or is hard to turn, do not force it open. Sticking may indicate that there is still pressure inside the canner. If in doubt about the state of pressure in the canner, let it stand until cool before removing the cover. -
When opening the cover, lift it toward you to keep any steam away from you (Fig. G).
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Using a jar lifter, remove the jars by lifting them straight up and out of the canner. Be careful not to tilt them, which may cause liquid to siphon from them. Place the jars upright on a board or a towel, away from drafts. Allow them to cool naturally for 12 to 24 hours before testing the seal. See the “After Processing” information on pages 3 and 4.
NOTICE: If processing consecutive batches, be sure to check the water level in the canner after each batch. Add water as needed to maintain 3 quarts of water in the canner at all times. If the canner boils dry and is left on a heated burner, or is heated while
empty, it may overheat, resulting in discoloration and/or warping of the canner bottom. -
When canning is complete, allow the canner to cool completely before cleaning it.
Canner Storage
Store the canner in a dry place at temperatures above freezing. Invert the
cover on the canner body. If you store the canner with the cover locked on,
unpleasant odors may form and/or the sealing ring may deform. The canner must
be completely dry before storing.
Care and Maintenance
Canner Body
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It is normal for the inside of the canner to discolor. This discoloration is not harmful. It is a result of the various minerals in the water and foods interacting with the aluminum. To remove this discoloration, use a solution of 1 tablespoon cream of tartar for every 1 quart of water. Pour enough solution into the canner to cover the discoloration, making sure the canner is not filled more than ⅔ full.
Close the cover securely, place the pressure regulator on the vent pipe, and heat the canner until the pressure regulator begins to rock. Remove the canner from heat; allow it to cool until the air/vent cover lock drops. Remove the regulator, open the canner,
and empty the contents. Scour thoroughly with a steel wool soap pad; wash, rinse, and thoroughly dry. -
Pitting is caused by the interaction of the aluminum with other metals in the presence of moisture. To minimize pitting, wash, rinse, and dry the canner body thoroughly after every use. At least once a year, scour the inside of the canner body with an abrasive cleanser, such as Cameo* Aluminum & Stainless Steel Cleaner. Always store the canner in a dry area.
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Do not leave an empty canner on a heated burner or allow the canner to boil dry. This can cause damage to the canner bottom and/ or the stovetop.
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Do not strike the rim of the canner body with any metal utensil. This will cause nicks, resulting in damage to the rim which may allow steam to escape from the canner.
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Cameo is a registered trademark of Armaly Sponge Company. Presto is not affiliated with this company.
- Do not pour water into a dry, overheated canner; this may crack the metal.
- If the body or cover handles of the canner become loose, tighten them with a screwdriver.
Pressure Dial Gauge
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The pressure dial gauge is a delicate instrument and must be handled with care. Do not submerge the gauge in any liquid, allow it to come into contact with any liquid, or subject it to freezing temperatures.
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The gauge needs to be checked for accuracy prior to each canning season and if any of the following conditions exist: the cover has been submerged in water or dropped, the parts are rusty, the pointer is not in the “0” block, or if you believe the gauge may not be accurate.
The gauge can usually be checked at your local county extension office. If you are unable to have your gauge checked locally, carefully remove it, wrap it securely, and send it to the Presto Consumer Service Department (see page 7). An accurate gauge is necessary to help prevent food spoilage and possible food poisoning. -
To install the dial gauge, insert the threaded stem into the black adapter seated in the hole in the center of the canner cover. Turn the gauge clockwise (Fig. H) until the gauge base sits flush against the adaptor. It may be necessary to hold the adapter from the inside of the cover while tightening the gauge. Stop turning it when the gauge faces the desired direction (Fig. I). The gauge will not tighten completely and the threaded stem will protrude from the underside of the adaptor.
Sealing Ring and Overpressure Plug
- Each time the canner is washed, remove the sealing ring and wash it in warm, soapy water. Rinse, dry, and replace it in the cover.
- The sealing ring and the overpressure plug should be replaced at least every three years, or sooner if the sealing ring becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn, or pitted, or if the canner becomes difficult to open or close. Failure to replace the sealing ring and overpressure plug could result in bodily injury or property damage. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts.
- If the sealing ring and overpressure plug are exposed to direct high heat, such as that from a hot burner or stovetop, they will deteriorate rapidly. If direct high heat exposure occurs, replace both of these parts.
- Clean the sealing ring groove in the cover with a brush each time you replace the sealing ring.
- To clean or replace the overpressure plug, push it out of its opening from the top of the cover. After cleaning it, or when replacing an old one with a new one, reinsert the plug by pushing the domed side of the plug into its opening from the underside of the cover. The bottom edge should be fully and evenly seated against the underside of the cover (Fig. J).
- If the overpressure plug is ever forced out of the cover due to excess pressure while canning or cooking, it is important to call the Presto Customer Service Department at 1-800-877-0441 for assistance. Do not attempt to use the released overpressure plug.
Air Vent/Cover Lock
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The air vent/cover lock may be removed for occasional cleaning or for replacing the small gasket.
To remove it, grasp and securely hold the cup on the underside of the cover with your fingers (Fig. K). Using the fingers of your other hand, turn the pin on the top side of the cover counterclockwise until the pin is free of the cup.
Lift the pin out of the cover and remove the cup from under the cover. Carefully pull the small gasket off the threaded shaft of the cup. Wash all parts in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry. Use a soft cloth or small nylon brush to clean the cover hole. -
To reassemble it, place the small gasket over the threaded shaft of the cup. Reinsert the cup by pushing the threaded shaft through the air vent/cover lock opening from the underside of the cover (Fig. K).
Screw the pin clockwise onto the threaded shaft until it is finger-tight. Do
not use a wrench to tighten the air vent/cover lock.
Overtightening may cause the rubber gasket to wrinkle, which will result in
the canner not sealing. Periodically check to make sure these two pieces are
tight.
Steam Leakage
If leakage of moisture or steam develops while using your canner, check the
following possible causes:
- The formation of a small amount of moisture under the pressure regulator is normal when canning or cooking first begins. This condensation is a result of the temperature of the pressure regulator being lower than the rest of the canner. If excess condensation continues, the vent pipe may be loose and should be tightened with an adjustable wrench.
- Leakage between the cover and body is usually caused by shrinkage of the sealing ring after prolonged use. Replace the sealing ring and the overpressure plug.
- A slight amount of leakage around the air vent/cover lock is normal when canning or cooking first begins. If leakage continues, the cover handles may not be fully aligned with the body handles and, therefore, the cover lock cannot engage. Clean the air vent/ cover lock occasionally to assure that it operates correctly. Replace the small gasket if it is cracked or nicked.
- A small amount of steam or moisture may be visible around the overpressure plug when canning or cooking begins. This will stop when the overpressure plug seals. If the leakage continues, clean, reposition, or replace the overpressure plug.
Do not operate your pressure canner with continual leakage. If the preceding steps do not correct the problem, contact the Presto Consumer Service Department.
Service and Parts Information
If you have any questions regarding the operation of your Presto® canner or need parts for your canner, contact us by:
- Calling 1-800-877-0441 weekdays 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Central Time)
- Emailing via our website at www.GoPresto.com
- Writing to National Presto Industries, Inc., Consumer Service Department, 3925 N. Hastings Way, Eau Claire, WI 54703-3703
Inquiries will be answered promptly by telephone, email, or letter. When
emailing or writing, please include a phone number and a time when you can be
reached during weekdays, if possible. When contacting the Consumer Service
Department or when ordering replacement parts, please specify the model number
stamped on the bottom of the canner body.
Any maintenance required for this canner, other than that described in the
“Care and Maintenance” section of this booklet, should be performed by our
Service Department. Be sure to indicate your full name, phone number, date of
purchase, and a description of the problem when sending a canner in for
repair. Note: We do recommend that you call our Consumer Service
Department prior to sending in your canner.
Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts with your Presto® pressure canner. Genuine Presto® replacement parts are manufactured to the same exacting quality standards as Presto® appliances and are engineered specifically to function properly with its appliances. Presto can only guarantee the quality and performance of genuine Presto® parts.
“Look-alikes” might not be of the same quality or function in the same manner. To ensure that you are buying genuine Presto® replacement parts, look for the Presto® trademark. Replacement parts are generally available at local hardware stores and other retail outlets. These replacement parts may also be ordered online at www.GoPresto.com.
Recipes and Helpful Hints for Pressure Canners
FRUITS
Although fruits are safely canned using the boiling water method, they can also be canned under pressure . This booklet contains processing procedures for pressure canning fruit.
Maintaining Color
Select firm, fully-ripened but not soft fruit. Do not can overripe foods. Some
fruit (apples, apricots, nectarines, peaches, and pears) tends to darken while
being prepared for canning .
To prevent darkening, place the fruit in a solution of 3 grams (3,000
milligrams) ascorbic acid to 1 gallon of cold water. Ascorbic acid is
available in different forms:
Pure Powdered Form: Use 1 teaspoon of pure powder, which weighs about 3 grams,
per gallon of water.
Vitamin C Tablets: Buy 500 milligram tablets . Crush and dissolve 6 tablets
per gallon of water.
Commercially Prepared Mixes of Ascorbic and Citric Acid: Available under
different brand names. Use according to manufacturer’s directions found on the
package.
Canning Liquids
Although fruit has better color, shape, and flavor when it is canned with
syrup, it may be canned in juices (such as apple, white grape, or pineapple)
or water as well.
White sugar is preferable to brown sugar for canning . Light corn syrup or
honey may be used to replace up to one-half the sugar. If you wish to use
sugar substitutes, follow the package instructions.
The amount of sugar desirable to use in preparing syrups will depend upon the
tartness of the fruit and on family preference. It should be remembered that
fruit, when heated, releases some of its juices which will dilute the syrup in
proportion to the juiciness of the fruit.
Use the syrup chart on page 4 as a guideline for preparing the syrup needed
for your canning recipe. The syrup recipe may be doubled or tripled depending
on the packing method and amount of fruit being canned at one time.
SYRUPS FOR CANNING FRUITS
Combine sugar and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil and keep syrup hot
while preparing fruit. Use as directed in recipe.
Syrup | Sugar | Water | Yield |
---|---|---|---|
Very Light | ½ cup | 4 cups | 4½ cups |
Light | 1 cup | 4 cups | 4¾ cups |
Medium | 1¾ cups | 4 cups | 5 cups |
Heavy | 2¾ cups | 4 cups | 5⅓ cups |
When pressure canning at altitudes of 2,000 feet or below (dial gauge canner) or 1,000 feet or below (weighted gauge canner), process according to specific recipe. When pressure canning above 2,000 feet altitude (dial gauge canner) or 1,000 feet (weighted gauge can- ner), process according to the following chart.
Altitude Chart for Canning Fruits
Altitude| Dial Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts| Weighted Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts
---|---|---
1,001–2,000 ft.| 6 pounds| 10 pounds
2,001–4,000 ft.| 7 pounds| 10 pounds
4,001–6,000 ft.| 8 pounds| 10 pounds
6,001–8,000 ft.| 9 pounds| 10 pounds
Processing time is the same at all altitudes .
CANNING RECIPES: FRUITS
APPLES
Wash, peel, and core apples. Cut into ½-inch slices. Place apples in an
ascorbic acid solution (see above) to prevent darkening during preparation.
Drain well.
Hot Pack: Add apples and syrup (see above), juice, or water to a large pot;
bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pack hot apples in
hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Cover apples with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove
air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8
minutes . For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see above for recommended
pounds pressure .
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8
minutes . For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see above for recommended
pounds pressure .
APPLESAUCE
Wash, peel, core, and slice apples. If desired, place apple slices into
ascorbic acid solution (see above) to prevent darkening. Drain well. Place
slices in a large pot. Add ½ cup water. Heat quickly until apples are tender,
stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Press through food mill or sieve.
(If chunk style sauce is preferred, omit this step.) If desired, sweeten to
taste. Reheat sauce to boiling. Pack into hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see above for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see above for
recommended pounds pressure.
APRICOTS
Wash well-ripened, firm apricots. If peeled apricots are desired, dip 1 minute in boiling water, then in cold water and peel. Cut apricots in half and remove pits. Place apricots in an ascorbic acid solution (see above) to prevent darkening during preparation. Drain well.
Hot Pack: Add apricots and syrup (page 4), juice, or water to a large
pot; bring to a boil. Pack hot apricots, cut side down, in hot jars, leaving
½-inch headspace. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with
bands.
Raw Pack: Pack raw apricots, cut side down, in hot jars, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
BERRIES (EXCEPT STRAWBERRIES)
Choose ripe, sweet berries with uniform color. Wash 1 or 2 quarts of berries at a time. Drain, cap, and stem if necessary.
Hot Pack: Use this method for firmer berries such as blueberries, currants, elderberries, gooseberries, and huckleberries. Heat berries in a large pot with boiling water for 30 seconds and drain. Add ½ cup hot syrup (page 2), juice, or water to hot jars. Pack hot berries into jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Raw Pack: Use this method for softer berries such as raspberries and blackberries. Add ½ cup hot syrup (page 2), juice, or water to hot jars. Pack raw berries into jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Gently shake jars while filling to pack firmly without crushing berries. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for
recommended pounds pressure.
CHERRIES
Stem and wash cherries. Remove pits, if desired. If pitted, place cherries
in an ascorbic acid solution (page 2) to prevent darkening of the stem end.
Drain well. If canning whole cherries, prick each cherry with a clean needle
to prevent splitting.
Hot Pack: Heat cherries in a large pot with ½ cup syrup (page 2), juice, or
water per quart of cherries.
Cover pot and bring to a boil. Pack hot cherries and cooking liquid in hot
jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position
lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints 8 minutes and
quarts 10 minutes. For process-ing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for
recommended pounds pressure.
NECTARINES AND PEACHES
Wash fully-ripened but not soft nectarines or peaches. Skin can be left on
nectarines. For peaches, loosen skin by dipping them 1 minute in boiling
water, then in cold water. Peel. Cut fruit in half and remove pits.
Slice if desired. Place fruit in an ascorbic acid solution (page 2) to prevent
darkening during preparation.
Drain well.
Hot Pack: Add fruit and syrup (page 2), juice, or water to a large pot; bring
to a boil. Pack hot fruit, cut side down, in hot jars, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Raw Pack: Pack raw fruit, cut side down, in hot jars, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
PEARS
Wash pears. Peel, cut in half lengthwise, and core. Place pears in an ascorbic
acid solution (page 3) to pre-vent darkening during preparation. Drain well.
Hot Pack: Add pears and syrup (page 2), juice, or water to a large pot; bring
to a boil. Boil 5 minutes.
Pack hot pears in hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cover with hot syrup,
juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
PLUMS
Stem and wash firm, ripe plums. If plums are to be canned whole, prick each
side with a fork. Freestone varieties may be cut in half and pitted.
Hot Pack: Add plums and syrup (page 2), juice, or water to a large pot; bring
to a boil. Boil 2 minutes.
Cover pot and let stand 20 to 30 minutes. Pack hot plums in hot jars, leaving
½-inch head-space. Cover with hot syrup, juice, or water, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Raw Pack: Pack raw plums firmly in hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cover
with hot syrup (page 2), juice, or water, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air
bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10 minutes.
For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended pounds
pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
RHUBARB
Trim off leaves. Wash stalks and cut into ½-inch to 1-inch pieces.
Hot Pack: Add rhubarb and ½ cup sugar per quart of rhubarb to a large pot. Let
stand until juice ap-pears. Heat rhubarb slowly to boiling. Pack hot rhubarb
in hot jars, leaving ½-inch head-space. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 6 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8 minutes.
For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended pounds
pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 5 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 8
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 2 for recommended
pounds pressure.
TOMATOES AND TOMATO PRODUCTS
Although tomatoes and tomato products are safely canned using the boiling water method, they can also be canned under pressure. For some tomato products, the pressure canning method may result in a more nutritious canned product. This booklet contains processing procedures for pressure canning tomatoes and tomato products.
Acidifying Tomatoes and Tomato Products
Tomatoes have a pH close to 4.6, which means it is necessary to take
precautions to can them safely. First, carefully choose the tomatoes for
canning. Use only tomatoes that are disease-free, preferably vine-ripened, and
firm.
Second, an acid must be added to tomatoes whether they are processed using the
boiling water method or pressure canning method. To ensure the safety of
whole, crushed, or juiced tomatoes, add 1 tablespoon bottled lemon juice (not
natural juice) or ¼ teaspoon citric acid per pint jar; for quart jars, add 2
tablespoons bottled lemon juice or ½ teaspoon citric acid.
Salt
Tomatoes and tomato products may be canned with or without salt. Salt is used
only for flavor, as it is not used in a large enough quantity to prevent
spoilage. If salt is desired, use only canning or pickling salt. Table salt
contains anti-caking agents that may cause cloudiness in the liquid inside the
jars.
The recommended amount of salt is ½ teaspoon for each pint jar and 1 teaspoon
for each quart jar.
When pressure canning at altitudes of 2,000 feet or below (dial gauge canner)
or 1,000 feet or below (weighted gauge canner), process according to specific
recipe. When pressure canning above 2,000 feet altitude (dial gauge canner) or
1,000 feet (weighted gauge canner), process according to the following chart.
Altitude Chart for Canning Tomatoes
Altitude| Dial Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts| Weighted Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts
---|---|---
1,001–2,000 ft.| 11 pounds| 15 pounds
2,001–4,000 ft.| 12 pounds| 15 pounds
4,001–6,000 ft.| 13 pounds| 15 pounds
6,001–8,000 ft.| 14 pounds| 15 pounds
Processing time is the same at all altitudes.
CANNING RECIPES: TOMATOES
TOMATOES—WHOLE OR HALVED
(packed raw without added liquid)
Wash smooth, firm, ripe tomatoes. Loosen skins by dipping tomatoes 1 minute in boiling water, then in cold water. Peel and remove core. Leave whole or halve. Add bottled lemon juice or citric acid to hot jars (see above). Add salt, if desired (see above). Fill jars with raw tomatoes, pressing until spaces between them fill with juice. Leave ½-inch head-space. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 25
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see chart above for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 25
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see chart above for
recommended pounds pressure.
TOMATOES—WHOLE OR HALVED
(packed in water)
Wash smooth, firm, ripe tomatoes. Loosen skins by dipping tomatoes 1 minute
in boiling water, then in cold water. Peel and remove core. Leave whole or
halve, or if using large tomatoes, quarter.
Hot Pack: Place prepared tomatoes in a large pot and add just enough water to
cover. Bring to a boil and boil gently for 5 minutes. Add bottled lemon juice
or citric acid to hot jars (see above).
Add salt, if desired (see above). Pack hot tomatoes in hot jars, leaving
½-inch headspace. Fill jars with hot cooking liquid, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Raw Pack: Add bottled lemon juice or citric acid to hot jars (see above). Add
salt, if desired (see above). Pack prepared tomatoes in hot jars, leaving
½-inch headspace. Fill hot jars with boiling water, leaving ½-inch headspace.
Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 10
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended
pounds pressure.
TOMATO JUICE
Wash ripe, juicy tomatoes. Remove stem ends. To prevent juice from separating,
quickly cut about 1 pound of tomatoes into quarters and put directly into a
large pot. Heat immediately to boiling while crushing.
Continue to slowly add and crush freshly cut tomato quarters to the boiling
mixture. Make sure the mixture boils constantly and vigorously while adding
more tomatoes. Continue until the pot is three-quarters full.
Simmer 5 minutes. If juice separation is not a concern, simply slice or
quarter tomatoes into a large pot. Crush, heat, and simmer for 5 minutes
before juicing.
Press heated juice through a sieve or food mill to remove skins and seeds.
Heat juice again to boiling.
Add bottled lemon juice or citric acid to hot jars (page 5). Add salt, if
desired (page 5). Fill hot jars with hot tomato juice, leaving ½-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with
bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 15
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 15
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended
pounds pressure.
TOMATO SAUCE
Prepare and press as for making tomato juice (see recipe above). Heat in
large pot until sauce reaches desired consistency. Simmer until volume is
reduced by about one-third for thin sauce or by one-half for thick sauce. Add
bottled lemon juice or citric acid to hot jars (page 5). Add salt, if desired
(page 5). Pour hot sauce into hot jars, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air
bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 15 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 15 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for recommended pounds pressure.
SPAGHETTI SAUCE WITHOUT MEAT
30 pounds tomatoes
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery or green pepper
1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced (optional)
5 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup vegetable oil| ¼ cup packed brown sugar
4 tablespoons dried parsley
2 tablespoons dried oregano
4½ teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
---|---
Note: Do not increase the proportion of onion, pepper, or mushrooms.
Wash tomatoes and dip in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds or until skins
split. Dip in cold water and slip off skins. Remove cores and quarter
tomatoes. Boil for 20 minutes, uncovered, in a large pot. Put through food
mill or sieve.
Sauté onion, celery or pepper, mushrooms (if desired), and garlic in vegetable
oil until tender. Combine vegetables, tomatoes, sugar, parsley, oregano, salt,
and pepper.
Bring to a boil. Simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently until thick enough for
serving. At this time, the initial volume will have been reduced by nearly
one-half.
Fill hot jars with hot sauce, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Yield: About 9 pints.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes and
quarts 25 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes
and quarts 25 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 5
for recommended pounds pressure.
SPAGHETTI SAUCE WITH MEAT
30 pounds tomatoes
2½ pounds ground beef or sausage
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery or green pepper
1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced (optional)
5 cloves garlic, minced| ¼ cup packed brown sugar
4 tablespoons dried parsley
2 tablespoons dried oregano
4½ teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
---|---
Note: Do not increase the proportion of onion, pepper, or mushrooms.
Wash tomatoes and dip in boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds or until skins
split. Dip in cold water and slip off skins. Remove cores and quarter
tomatoes. Boil for 20 minutes, uncovered, in a large pot. Put through food
mill or sieve.
Brown beef or sausage. Add onion, celery or green pepper, mushrooms (if
desired), and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender. Combine with tomatoes
in large pot. Add sugar, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil. Simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently until thick enough for
serving. At this time, the initial volume will have been reduced by nearly
one-half.
Fill hot jars with hot sauce, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Yield: About 9 pints.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 60 minutes and
quarts 70 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 5 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 60 minutes
and quarts 70 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 5
for recommended pounds pressure.
VEGETABLES
Pressure canning is the only safe method for canning vegetables.
Young, tender, fresh, and slightly immature vegetables are better for canning
than those which are overripe. As a rule, vegetables are best when canned
immediately after picking, since flavor decreases upon standing and often
unpleasant color changes take place.
Avoid bruising vegetables because spoilage organisms grow more rapidly on
bruised vegetables than on those that are unblemished.
Wash and prepare garden fresh vegetables as you would for cooking. When
packing vegetables, always leave 1-inch headspace, or more if directed in
recipe, in hot Mason jars.
To hot pack vegetables, precook in boiling water until heated through. Pack
precooked vegetables into hot jars and cover with boiling water. Whenever
possible, the precooking water should be used as liquid to cover the
vegetables after packing into jars. However, there are a few vegetables, such
as greens and asparagus, which make the cooking water bitter and undesirable
to use.
To raw pack vegetables, simply place the prepared vegetables into hot jars and
cover with boiling water.
Salt
Vegetables may be processed with or without salt. Salt is used only for
flavor, as it is not used in a large enough quantity to prevent spoilage. If
salt is desired, use only canning or pickling salt. Table salt contains anti-
caking agents that may cause cloudiness in the
liquid inside the jars.
The recommended amount of salt is ½ teaspoon for each pint jar and 1 teaspoon
for each quart jar.
Altitude Adjustment
When pressure canning at altitudes of 2,000 feet or below (dial gauge canner)
or 1,000 feet or below (weighted gauge canner), process according to specific
recipe. When pressure canning above 2,000 feet altitude (dial gauge canner) or
above 1,000 feet (weighted gauge canner), process according to the following
chart.
Altitude Chart for Canning Vegetables
Altitude| Dial Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts| Weighted Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts
---|---|---
1,001–2,000 ft.| 11 pounds| 15 pounds
2,001–4,000 ft.| 12 pounds| 15 pounds
4,001–6,000 ft.| 13 pounds| 15 pounds
6,001–8,000 ft.| 14 pounds| 15 pounds
Processing time is the same at all altitudes.
CANNING RECIPES: VEGETABLES
ASPARAGUS
Wash and drain asparagus. Remove tough ends and scales. Rinse. Leave asparagus
whole or cut into pieces.
Hot Pack:
Cover asparagus with boiling water and boil 2 to 3 minutes. Pack hot asparagus
loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Raw Pack: Pack raw asparagus tightly in hot jars, leaving 1-inch
headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 30 minutes and quarts
40 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 30 minutes
and quarts 40 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
for recommended pounds pressure.
BEANS OR PEAS—DRY
Sort out and discard any discolored beans. Rehydrate beans or peas using
one of the following methods:
♦ Place dry beans or peas in a large pot and cover with water. Soak 12 to 18
hours in a cool place. Then drain.
♦ Cover beans with boiling water in a large pot. Boil 2 minutes, remove from
heat and soak 1 hour. Then drain.
Hot Pack: Cover beans soaked by either method with fresh water and boil 30 minutes. Add salt to hot jars, if desired (page 7). Fill jars with beans or peas and cooking water, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes
and quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
above for recommended pounds pressure.
BEANS—FRESH LIMA, BUTTER, PINTO, OR SOY
Shell and wash young, tender beans thoroughly.
Hot Pack: Cover beans with boiling water and bring to a boil. Boil 3 minutes.
Pack hot beans loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Raw Pack: Pack raw beans loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace in pint
jars. For quarts, leave 1½-inch headspace if beans are small and 1¼-inch
headspace if beans are large.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 40 minutes and
quarts 50 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 40 minutes
and quarts 50 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
for recommended pounds pressure.
BEANS—GREEN, WAX, ITALIAN
Wash young, tender beans thoroughly. Remove stem and blossom ends or any
strings. Leave whole or cut into 1-inch pieces.
Hot Pack: Cover beans with boiling water and boil 5 minutes. Pack hot beans
loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Raw Pack: Pack raw beans tightly in hot jars leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes and
quarts 25 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes
and quarts 25 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
for recommended pounds pressure.
BEETS
Trim tops of young, tender beets, leaving 1 to 2 inches of stem and root to
reduce bleeding of color. Wash thoroughly.
Hot Pack: Cover beets with boiling water and boil 15 to 25 minutes or until
skins slip off easily.
Remove skins, stems, and roots. Small beets may be left whole. Cut medium or
large beets into ½-inch cubes or slices; halve or quarter very large slices.
Pack hot beets in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 30 minutes and quarts
35 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 30 minutes and
quarts 35 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
CARROTS
Wash thoroughly and peel young, tender carrots. Carrots may be left whole,
sliced, or diced.
Hot Pack: Cover carrots with water, bring to a boil, and simmer 5 minutes.
Pack hot carrots in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Raw Pack: Pack raw carrots tightly in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 25 minutes and quarts
30 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 25 minutes and
quarts 30 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
CORN—WHOLE KERNEL
Husk and remove silk from young, tender, freshly picked corn; wash ears.
Blanch 3 minutes in boiling water. Cut corn from cob at about three-fourths
the depth of the kernel. Do not scrape cob.
Hot Pack: For each quart of corn, add 1 cup boiling water. Bring to a boil and
simmer 5 minutes. Pack hot corn loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Raw Pack: Pack raw corn loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 55 minutes and quarts
85 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 55 minutes and
quarts 85 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
GREENS
Sort young, tender, freshly picked greens; discard wilted or tough leaves,
stems, and roots. Wash greens thoroughly.
Hot Pack: Blanch 1 pound of greens at a time, until well wilted (about 3 to 5
minutes). Pack hot greens loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with fresh boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with
bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 70 minutes and quarts
90 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 70 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
MUSHROOMS
Trim stems and discolored parts of mushrooms. Soak mushrooms in cold water for
10 minutes to remove soil. Wash in clean water. Leave small mushrooms whole;
cut larger ones in half or in quarters.
Hot Pack: Cover mushrooms with water and boil 5 minutes. Pack hot mushrooms in
hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. For better color, add ⅛ teaspoon of
ascorbic acid per pint.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, half-pints and pints 45
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, half-pints and
pints 45 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
OKRA
Wash and trim young, tender okra pods. Remove stem, without cutting into pods
if okra is to be canned whole. If desired, slice okra into 1-inch pieces.
Hot Pack: Cover okra with hot water and boil 2 minutes. Pack hot okra in hot
jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 25 minutes and
quarts 40 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 25 minutes
and quarts 40 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
for recommended pounds pressure.
PEAS—GREEN
Wash and shell young, tender freshly picked green peas. Rinse.
Hot Pack: Cover peas with boiling water and bring to a boil. Boil 2 minutes.
Pack hot peas loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Do not shake or
press down.
Raw Pack: Pack peas loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Do not
shake or press down.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 40
minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for recommended
pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints and quarts 40
minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for recommended
pounds pressure.
PEPPERS—HOT OR SWEET
(including bell, chile, jalapeño, and pimiento)
Preparation of chile peppers: Cut two or four slits in each pepper.
Blister using one of the following methods:
♦ Oven or broiler method: Place chile peppers in a 400°F oven or broiler for 6
to 8 minutes until skins blister.
♦ Range-top method: Cover hot burner, either gas or electric, with heavy wire
mesh. Place chiles on wire mesh for several minutes until skins blister.
Allow peppers to cool. Place in a pan and cover with a damp cloth. After
several minutes, peel peppers.
Remove stems and seeds.
Preparation of other peppers: Remove stems and seeds; blanch 3 minutes.
Hot Pack: Small peppers may be left whole. Large peppers may be
quartered. Pack peppers loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 35 minutes. For
processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for recommended pounds
pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints
35 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
POTATOES—SWEET
Wash small to medium size sweet potatoes.
Hot Pack: Boil or steam sweet potatoes just until partially soft (15 to
20 minutes). Remove skins and cut into pieces of uniform size. CAUTION! Do not
mash or purée potatoes as processing time may not be adequate for mashed or
puréed product. Pack hot sweet potatoes in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 65 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 65 minutes
and quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7
for recommended pounds pressure.
POTATOES—WHITE
Wash, peel, and rinse new potatoes 1 to 2 inches in diameter. If desired, cut
into ½-inch cubes. Place in ascorbic acid solution (1 teaspoon ascorbic acid
to 1 gallon water) to prevent darkening. Drain.
Hot Pack: Cover potatoes with hot water and bring to a boil. Boil whole
potatoes for 10 minutes, cubes for 2 minutes. Pack hot potatoes in hot jars,
leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 35 minutes and quarts
40 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 35 minutes and
quarts 40 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
PUMPKIN AND WINTER SQUASH
Wash and remove seeds from small size pumpkins or squash. Cut into 1-inch
slices and peel. Cut flesh into 1-inch cubes.
Hot Pack: Boil cubes in water for 2 minutes. CAUTION! Do not mash or purée as
processing time may not be adequate for puréed product. Pack hot pumpkin or
squash cubes loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.
Add salt, if desired (page 7). Cover with boiling water, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles.
Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 55 minutes and quarts
90 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 55 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 7 for
recommended pounds pressure.
MEAT, GAME, AND POULTRY
Pressure canning is the only safe method for canning meat, game, and
poultry.
Meat, game, and poultry should be handled carefully to avoid contamination.
Keep it as cool as possible during preparation for canning, handle rapidly,
and process as soon as it is packed.
Use good quality product that has been trimmed of gristle, fat, and bruised
spots. The hot pack is recommended for the best liquid cover and quality
during storage.
To make broth, place bony pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water.
Simmer until meat is tender. Discard fat. Add boiling broth to hot jars packed
with precooked meat or poultry.
Salt
Meat, game, and poultry may be canned with or without salt. Salt is used only
for flavor, as it is not used in a large enough quantity to prevent spoilage.
If salt is desired, use only canning or pickling salt. Table salt contains
anti-caking agents that may cause cloudiness in the liquid inside the jars.
The recommended amount of salt is ½ teaspoon for each pint jar and 1 teaspoon
for each quart jar.
Altitude Adjustment
When pressure canning at altitudes of 2,000 feet or below (dial gauge canner)
or 1,000 feet or below (weighted gauge canner), process according to specific
recipe. When pressure canning above 2,000 feet altitude (dial gauge canner) or
above 1,000 feet (weighted gauge canner), process according to the chart on
the next page.
Altitude Chart for Canning Meat, Poultry, Fish, Seafood, and Soup
Altitude| Dial Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts| Weighted Gauge Canner
Pints and Quarts
---|---|---
1,001–2,000 ft.| 11 pounds| 15 pounds
2,001–4,000 ft.| 12 pounds| 15 pounds
4,001–6,000 ft.| 13 pounds| 15 pounds
6,001–8,000 ft.| 14 pounds| 15 pounds
Processing time is the same at all altitudes.
CANNING RECIPES: MEAT
CUT-UP MEAT (strips, cubes, or chunks)
Bear, Beef, Pork, Lamb, Veal, and Venison
Remove excess fat. Soak strong-flavored wild meats for 1 hour in brine
containing 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water. Rinse. Remove large bones
and cut into desired pieces.
Hot Pack: Precook meat until rare by roasting, stewing, or browning in a small
amount of oil. Do not use flour. Pack hot meat loosely in hot jars, leaving
1-inch headspace. Add salt, if desired (see page 11). Cover meat with boiling
broth, water, or tomato juice (especially with wild game) leaving 1-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with
bands.
Raw Pack: Add salt, if desired (see page 11) to hot jars. Pack raw meat
loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. DO NOT ADD LIQUID. Clean jar
rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see chart above
for recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes
and quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see chart
above for recommended pounds pressure.
GROUND MEAT
Bear, Beef, Pork, Lamb, Veal, and Venison
Grind fresh meat in a food processor or meat grinder. For venison, add one
part high quality pork fat to three or four parts venison before grinding. For
sausage, use freshly made sausage seasoned with salt and cayenne pepper (do
not use sage as it may cause a bitter flavor).
Hot Pack: Shape ground meat or sausage into patties or balls. Cook until
lightly browned. Ground meat may also be cooked without shaping. Drain to
remove excess fat. Pack hot meat loosely in hot jars, leaving 1-inch
headspace. Add salt, if desired (page 11). Cover meat with boiling water,
broth, or tomato juice, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean
jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes and
quarts 90 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 75 minutes
and quarts 90 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12
for recommended pounds pressure.
CANNING RECIPES: POULTRY
CHICKEN, DUCK, GOOSE, TURKEY
Cut poultry into serving size pieces. If desired, remove bone.
Hot Pack: Precook poultry until two-thirds done by baking, boiling, or
steaming. Pack hot poultry loosely in hot jars, leaving 1¼-inch headspace. Add
salt, if desired (page 11). Cover poultry with hot broth, leaving 1¼-inch
headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with
bands.
Raw Pack: Add salt, if desired (page 25) to hot jars. Pack raw poultry loosely
in hot jars, leaving 1¼-inch headspace. DO NOT ADD LIQUID. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner | With Bone | Without Bone | |
---|---|---|---|
Process at 11 pounds pressure | Pints | ||
Quarts | 65 minutes | ||
75 minutes | 75 minutes |
90 minutes
For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 26 for recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner | With Bone | Without Bone | |
---|---|---|---|
Process at 10 pounds pressure | Pints | ||
Quarts | 65 minutes | ||
75 minutes | 75 minutes |
90 minutes
For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for recommended pounds pressure.
RABBIT
Soak dressed rabbits 1 hour in water containing 1 tablespoon of salt per quart
of water. Rinse. Use preparation procedures and processing times for poultry
(page 27 and above), omitting salt.
FISH AND SEAFOOD
Pressure canning is the only safe method for canning fish and seafood.
Only fresh fish should be canned and these should be bled and thoroughly
cleaned of all viscera and membranes when caught, or as soon as possible. To
prevent spoilage, keep fish and shellfish refrigerated or on ice to maintain a
temperature of 40°F or below
CANNING RECIPES: FISH AND SEAFOOD
CLAMS—WHOLE OR MINCED
Keep clams on ice until ready to can. Scrub shells thoroughly and rinse.
Hot Pack: Steam 5 minutes and open. Remove clam meat. Collect and save clam
juice. Wash clam meat in salted water using 1½ to 3 tablespoons of salt per
gallon of water. Rinse. Cover clam meat with boiling water containing 2
tablespoons of lemon juice or ½ teaspoon of citric acid per gallon. Boil 2
minutes and drain. To make minced clams, grind clams with a meat grinder or
food processor. Heat reserved clam juice to boiling. Pack clams loosely in hot
jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Add hot clam juice and, if needed, boiling
water, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position
lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, half-pints 60 minutes
and pints 70 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12
for recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, half-pints 60
minutes and pints 70 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see
page 12 for recommended pounds pressure.
FISH
Salmon, Trout, Steelhead, and other fish except Tuna
Remove head, tail, and fins. Wash fish in cold water.
Raw Pack: Split fish lengthwise and then cut into lengths that fit the jar
size being used. Bones can be left in and skin left on, if desired. For
halibut, remove the bones and skin. Pack fish tightly in hot jars, leaving
1-inch headspace. Add ½ teaspoon canning salt to each half-pint jar, 1
teaspoon to each pint jar, if desired. DO NOT ADD LIQUID. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, half-pints and pints
100 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, half-pints and
pints 100 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
TUNA
Remove viscera and clean fish thoroughly. Tuna may be canned either raw or
precooked. Precooking re-moves most of the strong-flavored, natural oils.
Hot Pack: Place tuna belly-side down on a rack in the bottom of a large baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour. Refrigerate cooked fish overnight to firm the meat. Remove skin. Cut meat away from bones; cut out and discard bone, fin bases, and dark flesh. Quarter the pieces; cut quarters crosswise into lengths that fit the jar size being used. Add ½ teaspoon canning salt to each half- pint jar, 1 teaspoon to each pint jar, if desired. Pack fish into hot jars, pressing down gently to make a solid pack, leaving 1-inch headspace. Add water or oil to jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Raw Pack: Remove skin. Separate the meat into quarters by cutting the meat away from bones. Cut out and discard bone, fin bases, and dark flesh. Cut quarters crosswise into lengths that fit the jar size being used. Add ½ teaspoon canning salt to each half-pint jar, 1 teaspoon to each pint jar, if desired. Pack fish into hot jars, pressing down gently to make a solid pack, leaving 1-inch headspace. DO NOT ADD LIQUID. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, half-pints and pints
100 minutes. For processing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, half-pints and
pints 100 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
STOCK AND SOUP
Pressure canning is the only safe method for canning stock and soup.
Stock and soup are quickly and easily canned. Generally, vegetable soups are
more satisfactory if the stock and vegetables are canned separately and
combined at the time of serving.
CANNING RECIPES: STOCK AND SOUP BEEF STOCK
Saw or crack fresh trimmed beef bones to enhance extraction of flavor. Rinse
bones.
Hot Pack: Place bones in a large pot and cover with water. Cover pot and
simmer 3 to 4 hours.
Remove bones. Cool broth; skim off and discard fat. Remove bits of meat from
bones and add to broth, if desired. Reheat broth to boiling. Fill hot jars
with hot broth, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims.
Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes and
quarts 25 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes
and quarts 25 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12
for recommended pounds pressure.
CHICKEN STOCK
Hot Pack: Place large carcass bones in a large pot; add enough water to
cover bones. Cover pot and simmer 30 to 45 minutes or until meat can be easily
removed from bones. Remove bones.
Cool broth; skim off and discard fat. Remove bits of meat from bones and add
to broth, if de-sired. Reheat broth to boiling. Fill hot jars with hot broth,
leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids
and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes and
quarts 25 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 20 minutes
and quarts 25 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12
for recommended pounds pressure.
SOUPS
*Vegetable, Dried Bean or Pea, Meat, Poultry, or Seafood
** Choose your favorite vegetables, dried beans or peas, meat, poultry, or
seafood ingredients for soup as long as those ingredients have their own
individual canning recommendations. Do not use ingredients for which there are
no canning recommendations.
CAUTION! In accordance with USDA guidelines, do not add noodles or other
pasta, rice, flour, cream, milk, or other thickening agents to home canned
soups as processing time may not be adequate.
Hot Pack: Prepare vegetables, meat, poultry, and seafood as described in
the hot pack directions for the individual ingredients. If dried beans or peas
are used, they must be fully rehydrated before adding to other ingredients
(see page 8). Combine solid ingredients with meat broth, tomatoes, or water to
cover. Boil 5 minutes. Salt to taste, if desired. Fill jars halfway with solid
ingredients and then add soup liquid, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air
bubbles. Clean jar rims. Position lids and secure with bands.
Dial Gauge Canner: Process at 11 pounds pressure, pints 60 minutes and
quarts 75 minutes. For process-ing above 2,000 feet altitude, see page 12 for
recommended pounds pressure.
Weighted Gauge Canner: Process at 10 pounds pressure, pints 60 minutes
and quarts 75 minutes. For processing above 1,000 feet altitude, see page 12
for recommended pounds pressure.
*Note: Cooked seafood can also be added as part of the solid mixture, but
the processing time must be increased to 100 minutes for pints and quarts.
HELPFUL HINTS FOR PRESSURE CANNING
♦ Bubbles often appear in the jar after removal from the canner because food
is still boiling in the jar. Ordinarily bubbles do not ap-pear once the
product has been allowed to thoroughly cool.
♦ Jar breakage during processing is caused by: (1) packing jar too solidly or
overfilling; (2) weakened, nicked, or chipped jars; (3) jars touching bottom
of canner; (4) failure to tighten screw bands according to manufacturer’s
directions; (5) use of jars other than Mason jars.
♦ Liquid lost from jars during processing is caused by: (1) packing jar too
solidly or overfilling; (2) insufficient exhaust period; (3) air was exhausted
too vigorously during the 10-minute venting period; (4) variation or sudden
reduction of pressure in the canner; (5) failure to tighten screw bands
according to manufacturer’s directions. If liquid is lost during processing,
do not open jar to replace liquid. Loss of liquid will not cause spoilage, but
food above the liquid will discolor. If at least half of the liquid is gone,
place the jar in the refrigerator and use the food within 2 to 3 days.
♦ Flat sour, a type of food spoilage, is caused by canning overripe food or
allowing precooked foods to stand in jar too long before processing. It may be
prevented by using fresh products and properly processing, cooling, and
storing. Flat sour shows no indication
of spoilage until jar is opened. Discard contents.
♦ Food spoilage or jars not sealing is caused by: (1) failure to follow exact
timetables and recipes; (2) failure to wipe sealing edge of jar clean before
placing lid on jar; (3) foods, seeds, or grease lodged between lid and jar;
(4) jars which are nicked, cracked, or have
sharp sealing edges; (5) failure to tighten screw bands according to
manufacturer’s directions; (6) turning jars upside down while jars are cooling
and sealing.
♦ Mold can form only in the presence of air. Therefore, jars are not sealed if
mold is present. Discard contents.
♦ If a jar does not seal, refrigerate it and use the food within 2 to 3 days.
Otherwise, reprocess or freeze the food within 24 hours. Freeze or repack
using new lids. Reprocess for the full recommended processing time.
♦ The black deposit sometimes found on the underside of a lid is caused by
tannins in the food or hydrogen sulfide which is liberated from the food by
the heat of processing. This does not indicate spoilage.
♦ As a safeguard against using canned foods which may be affected with
spoilage that is not readily detected, boil all low-acid foods and tomatoes
for 10 minutes at altitudes below 1,000 feet. Extend the boiling time by 1
minute for each 1,000 foot increase in altitude.
♦ Two-piece vacuum caps (lids and bands) seal by the cooling of the contents
of the jar, not through pressure of the screw band on the lid. Therefore,
although the screw band is firmly tight, the jar is not sealed until cooled.
During processing, the flexible metal lid permits air to be exhausted from the
jar.
♦ Adjust two-piece vacuum caps by screwing bands down evenly and firmly until
a point of resistance is met–fingertip tight. Do not use undue exertion.
♦ It is better to overprocess food than underprocess as overprocessing will do
little harm, but underprocessing may result in spoilage and unsafe food.
♦ Discoloration of peaches and pears on the top of the jar is often due to
enzyme activity which means that the processing time was not long enough or
the temperature not high enough to render the enzymes inactive.
♦ The loss of color from beets during canning is usually due to the variety of
beets used. Two varieties that retain color well are Ruby Queen and Detroit
Red. To reduce bleeding of color, precook beets with entire root and 1 to 2
inches of stem. Remove stem and root after precooking.
♦ Fruit which has been canned without sugar will often turn brown when exposed
to air just as fresh fruit does.
♦ The diameter of Mason jars may vary from one manufacturer to another. Before
filling Mason jars, test load your canner. It may be necessary to double-deck
pint and half-pint jars to reach the maximum capacity of your canner. It is
recommended that you stagger the jars by placing one jar on top of two. Jars
may touch. The canning rack which accompanied your pressure canner must be
placed on the bottom of the canner to prevent jar breakage. Although it is not
necessary to use a rack between layers of jars, if you wish to do so, a rack
can be ordered from the Presto Consumer Service Department. See back cover for
contact information.
♦ For more information, visit
www.GoPresto.com/recipes/canning.
SERVICE AND PARTS INFORMATION
If you have any questions regarding the operation of your Presto® canner or need parts for your canner, contact us by any of these methods:
- Call 1-800-877-0441 weekdays 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Central Time)
- Email us through our website at www.GoPresto.com/contact
- Write: National Presto Industries, Inc.
Consumer Service Department
3925 N. Hastings Way
Eau Claire, WI 54703-3703
When contacting the Consumer Service Department or when ordering replacement
parts, please specify the model number found stamped on the bottom of the
canner or the nameplate on the cover.
Inquiries will be answered promptly by telephone, email, or letter. When
emailing or writing, please include a phone number and a time when you can be
reached during weekdays, if possible.
Any maintenance required for this canner should be performed by our Factory
Service Department. ( Note: We do recommend that you call our Consumer
Service Department at 1-800-877-0441
prior to sending your canner in for repair.) Be sure to indicate date of
purchase and a description of the problem when sending a canner for repair.
Replacement canner parts may be obtained at hardware stores and other retail
outlets. Use only genuine Presto® replacement parts.
Parts may also be ordered online at
www.GoPresto.com.