Say Goodbye to Store-Bought, Hello to Homemade: How to Can Peach Pie Filling Without Clear Jel
What To Know
- This blog post will guide you through the process of how to can peach pie filling without ClearJel, using natural methods that will give you a thick, flavorful filling that will last all year long.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids and rings on, and process in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
- Once cooled, store the canned peach pie filling in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Are you a fan of homemade peach pie? Do you dream of enjoying that warm, delicious taste year-round? But what if you’re not a fan of using commercial thickeners like ClearJel? Don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice your pie dreams! This blog post will guide you through the process of how to can peach pie filling without ClearJel, using natural methods that will give you a thick, flavorful filling that will last all year long.
The Power of Natural Thickening
Many people think that ClearJel is essential for canning peach pie filling, but it’s not! You can achieve a thick, luscious filling using natural methods that are just as effective. These methods rely on the natural pectin in the peaches themselves, along with a few simple tricks to enhance their thickening power.
Choosing the Right Peaches
The first step to delicious canned peach pie filling is selecting the right peaches. Choose firm, ripe peaches with a vibrant color. Avoid peaches that are too soft or have bruises, as these can affect the texture and flavor of your filling.
Prepping Your Peaches
Once you have your peaches, it’s time to prepare them for canning.
1. Wash and Peel: Wash the peaches thoroughly and remove the skins. You can peel them by hand, using a peeler, or by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunging them into ice water. The blanching method makes peeling much easier.
2. Slice or Dice: Cut the peaches into slices or dice, depending on your preference. For a classic pie filling, slices are ideal. For a more modern, chunky filling, dice them.
3. Measure and Prepare: Measure out your peaches, ensuring you have enough to fill your jars. You can add a bit of lemon juice to help preserve their color and prevent browning.
Enhancing Natural Thickening
Now comes the magic of natural thickening. Here are two popular methods:
1. The Starch Method:
- Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a widely used natural thickener that works well with peaches. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of sugar and add it to the peaches in the pot.
- Tapioca: Tapioca is another effective starch. Use 2 tablespoons of tapioca flour for every 4 cups of peaches.
- Arrowroot: Arrowroot powder is known for its delicate thickening properties. Use 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder for every 4 cups of peaches.
2. The Fruit Pectin Method:
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon juice contains natural pectin, which helps thicken the filling. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the peaches.
- Apple Juice: Adding apple juice to your peach filling introduces additional pectin, enhancing its thickening properties. Use about 1 cup of apple juice for every 4 cups of peaches.
Canning Your Peach Pie Filling
Now that your peaches are prepped and your thickening method is chosen, it’s time to can your delicious filling.
1. Prepare Jars: Wash and sterilize your canning jars, lids, and rings.
2. Combine Ingredients: Combine the peaches, sugar, thickening agent (if using), and any additional ingredients like spices or lemon juice in a large pot.
3. Bring to a Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it comes to a full rolling boil.
4. Process: Pack the hot filling into your sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids and rings on, and process in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
Cooling and Storage
After processing, remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool completely. You should hear a “popping” sound as the lids seal, indicating a successful canning process. Once cooled, store the canned peach pie filling in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Enjoy Your Delicious Homemade Peach Pie Filling
Now you have the knowledge and confidence to create your own delicious peach pie filling without relying on commercial thickeners. You can enjoy the sweet, juicy taste of summer in your pie all year long!
A Final Note on Safety
Canning is a serious endeavor. Always follow the recommended processing times and procedures to ensure the safety of your canned goods. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consult a reliable canning resource or a local expert.
More Than Just Pie
While canned peach pie filling is perfect for pies, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can use it in cobblers, crumbles, crisps, and even as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Get creative and explore the many delicious possibilities!
Time for a Slice of Pie!
Now that you know how to can peach pie filling without ClearJel, it’s time to get your hands dirty and create your own delicious homemade filling. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your pie is made with fresh, natural ingredients and a touch of your own culinary magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen peaches. However, frozen peaches tend to release more liquid during cooking, so you may need to adjust the amount of thickening agent.
Q: How do I know if my jars have sealed properly?
A: After cooling, you should hear a “popping” sound as the lids seal. You can also check if the lid is slightly concave in the center, indicating a good seal.
Q: Can I add spices to my peach pie filling?
A: Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to your filling for a more complex flavor profile.
Q: How long can I store canned peach pie filling?
A: Properly canned peach pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.