How To Can Crab Apples

How to Can Crab Apples: A Step-by-Step Guide for Delicious Preserves

Crabapples, those tart little fruits, are a treasure trove of flavor, perfect for adding a unique tang to your favorite recipes. But their short season means you need to preserve them to enjoy their deliciousness year-round. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of safely canning crab apples, resulting in delicious preserves perfect for pies, sauces, or simply enjoying on their own.

Preparing Your Crab Apples: A Foundation for Success

Before you even think about canning, proper preparation is key. This ensures the best texture and flavor in your final product.

1. Selecting and Cleaning Your Crabapples:

• Choose ripe crabapples: Look for firm, unblemished fruit. Avoid any that are bruised, soft, or show signs of decay.
• Wash thoroughly: Rinse your crabapples under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. A gentle scrubbing with a vegetable brush can be helpful.

2. Peeling, Coring, and Slicing (Optional):

• Peeling: While not strictly necessary, peeling crabapples can result in a smoother, more refined preserve. You can peel them using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife.
• Coring: Removing the cores is essential to avoid a bitter taste. You can use a corer or carefully cut out the core with a paring knife.
• Slicing: Slicing your crabapples into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and a pleasing consistency in your final product. The size of your slices will depend on your preference.

Canning Crab Apples: A Step-by-Step Process

Now for the main event! Follow these steps carefully to ensure safe and delicious canned crab apples.

1. Sterilizing Jars and Lids:

• Clean thoroughly: Wash your jars and lids in hot, soapy water. A dishwasher is perfectly acceptable.
• Sterilize: Place the clean jars and lids in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a rolling boil for at least 10 minutes. Keep the jars submerged in hot water until ready to use.

2. Making the Crab Apple Mixture:

• Combine ingredients: Choose your recipe! You can simply can crab apples in light syrup, or you can experiment with spices like cinnamon, cloves, or allspice. The possibilities are endless! A simple recipe might involve crabapples, sugar, and lemon juice. Always follow a tested recipe for safe canning practices.
• Cook until tender: Gently simmer your crab apple mixture until the fruit is tender but still holds its shape.

3. Filling the Jars:

• Ladle carefully: Using a ladle or funnel, carefully fill the sterilized jars with the hot crab apple mixture, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
• Remove air bubbles: Run a clean, non-metallic utensil around the inside of the jar to release any trapped air bubbles.
• Wipe the rims: Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.

4. Sealing and Processing:

• Place lids and rings: Place the lids and rings on the jars, tightening them fingertip tight.
• Process in a water bath: Carefully place the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are fully submerged by at least 1 inch of water. Process according to your chosen recipe’s instructions. Processing times vary depending on altitude and jar size.
• Cool and check seals: Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. You should hear a “pop” sound as the jars seal. Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t flex, the jar is sealed.

Storing Your Canned Crab Apples

Once your crab apples have cooled and sealed, store them in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly canned crab apples can last for up to a year.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Uses for Your Canned Crab Apples

Don't limit yourself to simply enjoying your canned crab apples straight from the jar. Get creative!

• Crabapple Sauce: A wonderful accompaniment to roasted meats and poultry.
• Crabapple Jelly: A sweet and tart spread perfect for toast or biscuits.
• Crabapple Pie Filling: The star ingredient for a unique and flavorful pie.
• Chutneys and Relishes: Add a unique tang to your savory dishes.

By following these steps, you can confidently can crab apples, preserving their deliciousness for months to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow tested recipes for optimal results. Happy canning!