Homestyle Comfort in a Jar: Canning Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Savor the Warmth: Canning Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for Year-Round Comfort

Canning is a wonderful preservation method that allows you to enjoy the flavors and comforts of homemade dishes long after their preparation.

 While strawberry jam may be a popular choice for canning, the possibilities extend far beyond sweet spreads. In this article, we will delve into the world of canning savory delights by sharing a step-by-step guide on how to can homemade chicken noodle soup. Prepare to savor the heartwarming goodness of this classic comfort food throughout the year, as we venture beyond the realm of jams and into the world of canned soups.

Recipe: Canned Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- 6 cups chicken broth

- 2 cups diced carrots

- 2 cups diced celery

- 1 cup diced onions

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

- 1 bay leaf

- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the canning jars and lids:

•    - Wash the canning jars, lids, and rings with hot soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly.

•    - Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure they are fully                         submerged.  Let them boil for 10 minutes to sterilize. Remove the jars from the             water and set them aside.

2. Prepare the soup:

•    - In a large pot, combine the shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced carrots, diced           celery, diced onions, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and bay leaf.

•    - Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and let        it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Add the noodles:

•    - Add the uncooked egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 6-8         minutes, or until the noodles are cooked al dente. Be careful not to overcook them         as they will continue to cook in the canning process.

4. Season the soup:

•    - Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to           your preference.

5. Fill the jars:

•    - Using a ladle, carefully fill each sterilized jar with the hot soup, leaving about 1            inch of headspace at the top.

•    - Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills or residue.

6. Seal the jars:

•    - Place the sterilized lids on top of each jar and secure them with the rings,                       tightening them just until fingertip-tight.

7. Process the jars:

•    - Place the filled and sealed jars in a canner or large pot filled with boiling water,           making sure the jars are fully submerged. Process the jars in boiling water for               approximately 25 minutes.

8. Cool and store:

•    - Carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined                    countertop to cool. Allow the jars to cool completely, undisturbed, for 12-24 hours.

•    - Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid         does not move or make a popping sound, the jar is properly sealed.

•    - Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cellar. They can be           stored for up to a year.

Canning homemade chicken noodle soup opens up a world of convenience and comfort, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish whenever you desire. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can preserve the flavors of homemade soup in jars, ensuring a taste of homestyle comfort throughout the year. So, embrace the joy of canning beyond strawberry jam and savor the heartwarming goodness of your very own canned chicken noodle soup.