Preserving Perfection: The Ultimate Guide to Canning Smashed Avocado with Lime Juice
Canned Smashed Avocado with Lime Juice:
Ingredients:
- Ripe avocados
- Fresh lime juice
Equipment:
- Mason jars with lids and bands
- Pressure canner
- Jar lifter
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions:
1. Select ripe avocados that are slightly soft to the touch. Cut each avocado in half and remove the pit. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
2. Using a fork or potato masher, smash the avocado until it reaches a smooth consistency. You can also add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or other seasonings if desired.
3. Sterilize the mason jars, lids, and bands by washing them with hot soapy water and rinsing well. You can also place them in a hot water bath or run them through a dishwasher cycle.
4. Fill each 1/2 pint jar with the smashed avocado, pressing it down firmly to remove any air pockets. Leave approximately 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) of headspace at the top of each jar.
5. Smooth out the top of the avocado in each jar to create an even surface.
6. Pour fresh lime juice into each jar, leaving about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) of headspace. The lime juice helps preserve the color and flavor of the avocado.
7. Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any food particles or liquid. Place the sterilized lids and bands on the jars and tighten them securely.
8. Place the filled jars into a pressure canner with the recommended amount of water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Follow the proper guidelines for canning avocados based on your altitude and pressure canner instructions.
9. Process the jars in the pressure canner at the appropriate pressure and time for your specific altitude and canner type. Start the processing time when the canner reaches a full boil. A suggested processing time for canned avocados is 30 minutes.
10. After the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure canner to depressurize naturally. Do not force-cool the canner.
11. Once the pressure has fully released, carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter and place them on a clean kitchen towel or cooling rack. Let the jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
12. After cooling, check the lids for proper sealing. The lids should be concave and firm when pressed in the center. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
13. Label the sealed jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly canned smashed avocado with lime juice can last for up to 1 year or more.
Note: It's important to follow proper canning procedures and guidelines to ensure food safety. Adjustments to processing times and pressures may be necessary based on your specific location and elevation. Always consult a reliable canning resource or the USDA guidelines for safe canning practices.
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