Preserving Savory Goodness: Homemade Canned Beef Stew for Instant Comfort
There's something truly satisfying about the sight of freshly canned beef stew, ready to be enjoyed whenever hunger strikes.
The process of canning not only preserves the rich flavors of the stew but also provides convenience and peace of mind, knowing that a delicious and hearty meal is just a jar away. In this article, we'll explore the joy of homemade canned beef stew and share a delightful recipe that will have your taste buds singing.
Recipe: Homemade Canned Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- - 2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- - 1 onion, diced
- - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- - 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- - 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- - 4 cups beef broth
- - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- - 1 bay leaf
- - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- - Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- 1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- 2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- 3. Return the browned beef stew meat to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans. Stir everything together.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture into the pot with the meat and vegetables.
- 5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat becomes tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 6. While the stew is simmering, prepare your canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sterilize them in boiling water or using a dishwasher.
- 7. Once the stew is ready, carefully ladle it into the prepared canning jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- 8. Place the lids and rings on the jars, tightening them just until they are snug. Avoid over-tightening, as it may interfere with the sealing process.
- 9. Process the jars in a pressure canner according to the recommended guidelines for your altitude and the type of canner you're using. Typically, beef stew requires processing at 10 pounds of pressure for 75 minutes.
- 10. After processing, turn off the heat and allow the canner to depressurize naturally. Carefully remove the jars and place them on a towel-lined countertop to cool.
- 11. Once the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn't flex or make a popping sound, it is properly sealed. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days.
- 12. Label and date the sealed jars, and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed and processed beef stew can be stored for up to a year.
Homemade canned beef stew is a culinary treasure that brings both convenience and a burst of flavor to your meals. The satisfaction of gazing at rows of beautifully canned stew, ready to be enjoyed whenever you desire, is truly rewarding. By following this delicious recipe and mastering the art of canning, you can savor the taste of homemade beef stew throughout the year. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the canner, and indulge in the delights of your very own canned beef stew.
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