Blueberries in a Jar

We scored a great deal at Aldi on Blueberries and we decided to can up a few versions of Blueberries.

Canning Blueberries Instructions

Equipment Needed:

• Canning jars (pint or quart-size)

• Canning lids and rings

• Large pot or water bath canner

• Jar lifter

• Bubble remover or a plastic spatula

• Towel or kitchen cloth

Ingredients:

• Fresh blueberries

• Sugar (optional)

• Water or juice (for syrup)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jars:

   • Wash your canning jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse well.

   • Place the jars in a pot of hot water and keep them warm until you're ready to fill them.

2. Prepare the Blueberries:

   • Sort through the blueberries, removing any stems, leaves, or damaged berries.

   • Rinse the blueberries gently under cold water and drain well.

3. Make the Syrup (Optional):

   • If you'd like a sweeter taste, prepare a light syrup by combining 1 part sugar to 5 parts water (you can adjust sugar depending on your preference) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

4. Fill the Jars:

   • With a jar lifter, remove one jar from the hot water and empty any water.

   • Pack the blueberries tightly into the jar, leaving a ½ inch headspace at the top.

   • If using syrup, pour it over the blueberries, still maintaining a ½ inch headspace.

5. Remove Bubbles:

   • Use a bubble remover or plastic spatula to gently stir through the jar, releasing any trapped air bubbles. Adjust the headspace as necessary.

6. Seal the Jars:

   • Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp towel to remove any residue.

   • Place the canning lid on top, then screw on the metal ring until it's fingertip-tight (not overly tight).

7. Process the Jars:

   • Place the jars in a canner filled with boiling water. Ensure the water covers the jars by at least an inch.

   • Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary).

8. Cool the Jars:

   • Once the processing time is up, carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel or cooling rack.

   • Allow them to cool completely for 12-24 hours. You should hear the popping sound as the seals form.

9. Check the Seals:

   • After cooling, ensure that the lids are sealed properly. Press the center of each lid; it should not pop back. If it does, refrigerate the jar and use it within the week.

10. Store:

    • Label your jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars can last for up to a year.

Reference: Reynolds, Susan, and Paulette Williams Ybarra. So Easy to Preserve. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Georgia, 1989, Sixth Edition - Berries, Page 40

Enjoy your canned blueberries in recipes, as snacks, or straight from the jar!