How do you can fresh pears? Preserving pears is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit year-round. Whether you have an abundance of pears from your own orchard or a local farmer’s market, canning pears is a simple and rewarding process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to successfully can fresh pears, ensuring they remain delicious and flavorful for months to come.
Canning pears is not only a practical way to store the fruit but also a fun activity that can be enjoyed with family and friends. The process involves selecting ripe pears, preparing them for canning, and using a water bath canner to seal the jars. By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the sweet taste of fresh pears whenever you desire.
First, let’s discuss the importance of selecting the right pears for canning. Opt for pears that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Green or yellow pears with a slight give are ideal. Avoid pears that are overripe or have soft spots, as they may not hold up well during the canning process.
Once you have your pears, it’s time to prepare them for canning. Start by washing the pears thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Next, peel the pears using a vegetable peeler or paring knife, being careful to remove only the skin and leave the flesh intact. You can also core the pears using a pear corer or a knife, removing the core and any seeds.
After peeling and coring the pears, it’s time to blanch them. Blanching is a process that involves boiling the pears for a short period of time to soften them and make them easier to pack into jars. To blanch the pears, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the pears. Boil for about 2-3 minutes, then remove the pears with a slotted spoon and plunge them into an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain the pears’ texture and color.
Once the pears are blanched, it’s time to pack them into jars. Sterilize the jars and lids by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that any bacteria or contaminants are killed, preventing spoilage. Place the pears into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Fill the jars with a light syrup, such as a 2:1 sugar syrup, to cover the pears completely. The syrup helps to preserve the pears and maintain their flavor.
After packing the jars, it’s time to process them in a water bath canner. Place the jars in the canner, making sure they are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for 25 minutes, depending on the altitude where you live. Altitude adjustments may be necessary, so consult a canning guide for specific instructions.
Once the processing time is complete, remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel or cooling rack. After a few hours, check the seals by pressing on the center of the lids. If they are firm and do not move, your pears are successfully canned and ready to be stored. Enjoy your homemade canned pears for a delicious treat throughout the year!
