Canning Turkey: A Safe and Delicious Way to Preserve Meat
Canning meats, especially turkey, can be a fantastic way to ensure you have delicious, ready-to-eat meals on hand.
It's a method that not only helps preserve the meat but also allows for easy meal prep. If you've been canning meats for a while like many of us, you know how rewarding it can be. But what happens when your family members are hesitant to try your canned creations? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of canning turkey, share a reliable recipe, and discuss how to help your loved ones understand the safety and benefits of home-canned meats.
Why Canning Turkey?
Convenience and Flavor
Canned turkey is not just convenient but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making sandwiches, soups, or casseroles, having canned turkey on hand makes meal preparation a breeze. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully during the canning process, often making it taste even better than freshly cooked turkey!
Long Shelf Life
One of the biggest advantages of canning turkey is its extended shelf life. Properly canned turkey can last for years when stored correctly, giving you peace of mind and a reliable food source for emergencies or busy days.
The Turkey Canning Recipe
Ingredients You Will Need
To get started with canning turkey, you’ll need the following:
- Fresh turkey (whole or cut into pieces, about 4-5 pounds)
- Salt (optional, for flavor)
- Water or broth (for filling)
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Equipment You Will Need
- Pressure canner
- Canning jars (pint or quart-sized)
- Lids and rings
- Canning funnel
- Jar lifter
- Ladle
- Clean cloth for wiping jar rims
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare Your Equipment:
- Start by sterilizing your canning jars and lids in boiling water. This is crucial for preventing contamination.
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Cook the Turkey:
- Cook your turkey overnight or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can roast, boil, or pressure cook it. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly.
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Remove the Meat:
- Debone the turkey and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any skin and bones.
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Pack the Jars:
- Using a canning funnel, pack the turkey pieces into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. If desired, add a pinch of salt for flavor.
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Add Liquid:
- Pour hot water or broth over the packed turkey until it reaches the appropriate headspace. Use a clean cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to ensure a proper seal.
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Seal the Jars:
- Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until they are fingertip-tight.
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Process in Pressure Canner:
- Place the jars in the pressure canner. Follow your canner’s instructions for processing times and pressure levels. Generally, turkey should be processed for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure for pint jars and 90 minutes for quart jars.
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Cool and Store:
- Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the canner to cool down naturally. When safe, remove the jars with a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel to cool completely. Once cooled, check that the lids have sealed properly and store them in a cool, dark place.
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Addressing Family Concerns About Canned Meats
Understanding the Hesitation
It's not uncommon for family members to be apprehensive about trying home-canned meats. Many people have concerns about safety, preservation methods, and the taste of canned foods. Here’s how you can help ease their worries:
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Share Your Knowledge:
- Educate them on the canning process, emphasizing the importance of using a pressure canner for meats, which eliminates harmful bacteria.
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Offer a Taste Test:
- Encourage them to try a small sample of your canned turkey in a familiar dish, like a turkey sandwich or soup. Sometimes, a taste is all it takes to change their minds!
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Highlight the Benefits:
- Discuss the advantages of home canning, including the freshness of ingredients, the lack of preservatives, and the cost savings compared to store-bought options.
Canning turkey is a delicious and practical way to preserve this versatile meat while ensuring you have meals ready at a moment's notice.
With the right equipment and technique, you can enjoy the benefits of home-canned turkey for years to come. And for those family members who might hesitate to try it, a little education and a taste test could go a long way in convincing them of its safety and deliciousness!
FAQs
1. How long does canned turkey last?
When stored properly in a cool, dark place, home-canned turkey can last for 2-5 years. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
2. Is it safe to can turkey using a water bath canner?
No, it is not safe to can turkey using a water bath canner. You must use a pressure canner to ensure that the meat is processed at the necessary temperature to kill harmful bacteria.
3. Can I can leftover turkey from Thanksgiving?
Yes! Leftover turkey is perfect for canning. Just make sure it’s cooked properly and follow the same canning process for the best results.
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