Using WECK jars for canning is a popular alternative to other canning techniques. The brand is known for its distinctive glass jars with the iconic strawberry logo, a rubber gaskets, stainless steel clips and a glass lid. Here's an overview of how to put your WECK products to work:
1. Jar Selection: WECK canning jars are made of high-quality glass and come in various sizes and shapes. They feature a glass lid, rubber gasket, and metal clamps. Ensure that both the jars and components are clean and in good condition.
2. Preparing Ingredients: Just like traditional canning, start by preparing the food you want to preserve. This can include fruits, vegetables, pickles, jams, or other items. Make sure they are clean, peeled, and cut to the desired size.
3. Sterilizing Jars: To prevent spoilage, sterilize the WECK jars, lids, gaskets, and clamps. This can be done by submerging them in boiling water for a few minutes or using a dishwasher's sterilize setting.
4. Filling Jars: Fill the sterilized jars with your prepared food, leaving the recommended headspace. The headspace is the space between the top of the food and the rim of the jar. It allows for proper sealing and expansion during processing.
5. Adding Rubber Gaskets: Its recommended to turn the glass lid upside down, apply the clean rubber gasket on bottom of the lid and then apply the lid and the glass lid at the same time onto the jar. This way the rubber stays in the correct position.
6. Securing with Metal Clips: Position the glass lid on top of the gasket and use metal clips to secure it in place. Make sure the clips are evenly spaced around the jar's rim and hold the lid firmly.
7. Water Bathing: Place the sealed jars in a large pot filled with water. The water level should cover the jars by at least an inch. Bring the water to a gentle boil and process for the recommended time based on your recipe. This heat treatment ensures the contents are safe for long-term storage. With multiple jars in one pot it is recommended to have a sufficient space between the jars or to put a separation between them to avoid breakage.
8. Cooling and Sealing: After processing, remove the jars from the water bath or fermentation location and let them cool naturally. As they cool, a vacuum seal will form, pulling the lid down and creating a secure, airtight seal.
9. Label and Store: Label the sealed jars with the contents and the date. Store them in a cool, dark place for long-term preservation.
The WECK canning method is appreciated for its reusable components, including the rubber gaskets and metal clips, making it an environmentally friendly choice for home canning. It's essential to follow specific recipes and guidelines to ensure the safety and quality of your preserved foods.