Canning without the canning equipment

Does anyone know how to can without the "proper" tools? I have the Ball canning Jars and a large pasta pot. Not sure how to replicate the process since all of my recipes talk about a jar lifter and other things. I have no idea how to can and would really like to try and make giardiniera and other items.

Re: Canning without the canning equipment

You really need the proper tools to can..........including the pot. Go on amazon, you can get a compete canning kit with the pot and every tool you need for about $40. It's worth the investment if you're serious about canning. If you do it half assed and wing it without following the proper steps with the proper tools you risk contamination, improper sealing, and other problems. It's extremely important to can properly to ensure proper preservation and freshness.

Re: Canning without the canning equipment

you do not need the canning kit (which I have- but I have canned prior to using a canning kit)..


What you need is a big pot.

Then you need to put something at the bottom of the pot that keeps the jars off the bottom of the pot. If the jars touch the bottom, they will crack. You can either put the rings at the bottom of the pot, or you can put a round cake cooling rack in the bottom.

as far a jar lifter, just use a good pair of tongs! Make sure you get a good grip before you lift those jars out of the pot.

You need to make sure the jars are completely covered with water by an inch- so you do need to have a big pot.

I have canned pie filling and jams both with and without the ball kit. and sometimes, I don't have a big batch so I don't want to be bothered w/ the kit.

Hope that helps.

Canning without the canning equipment

When mom and I made jam, we never used a canning kit. Once the hot jars were filled with the hot jam, we sealed the jars then placed them upside down on kitchen towels, righted them after 10 minutes so they vacuum sealed themselves.