8
processing time is from an approved canning guide to ensure you have
a safe finished product. (The processing times for steam canning are
the same as for water bath canning).
10. Adjust the burner so that it maintains and even rolling boil throughout
the entire processing time. Usually this will be much lower than where
it was set for step 8 when the water was coming up to a boil. If the
top lid is lifting up and /or spitting water from the edges this is an
indication that you have the heat turned up too high. Slowly reduce
the heat until this stops. You only need enough heat to maintain a slow
rolling boil. Watch the indicator to ensure the temperature does not
decrease.
11. When the processing time is finished, turn off the heat and let stand
for 5 minutes with the lid on before removing jars. The lid MUST
remain ON the canner during this time. This cool down period is
necessary to ensure the jars are properly processed. Removing the lid or
skipping this step entirely can result in under processed jars.
12. Carefully remove the lid by tilting it away from you to avoid steam
burns.
WARNING!
The steam and water will be hot and can cause a
serious burn injury. Use extreme caution while using your canner.
13. Use hot pads or a jar lifter to remove the jars from the canner. Place
the jars on a dry towel, cloth or cooling rack, in a draft-free area, leaving
2 inches of space around all sides of the jars. Let cool for 12-24 hours.
14. After cooling time is complete, remove the rings and check the seals
by depressing the center of the canning lid. If it pops back up, it is not
sealed. Reprocess within 24 hours or refrigerate immediately and eat the
contents within a few days. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Processing Times
Steam canners and water bath canners both use the same processing
times.
Processing times will vary based upon the product that is being canned and
the recipe that is used. Please refer to the USDA’s website for approved
canning guides and recipes, nchfp.uga.edu. A few USDA approved recipes
have been attached to the end of this manual.
