Canning hamburger made easy: step-by-step instructions for beginners
What To Know
- Whether you’re a prepper, homesteader, or simply want to save money on meat, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to can hamburger safely and effectively.
- By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the convenience and cost-savings of having canned hamburger on hand for years to come.
- Canned hamburger can last for up to 10 years or more when properly stored in a cool, dark place.
Canning hamburger is a valuable skill for preserving ground beef and extending its shelf life for months or even years. Whether you’re a prepper, homesteader, or simply want to save money on meat, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to can hamburger safely and effectively.
Benefits of Canning Hamburger
- Extended shelf life: Canned hamburger can last for up to 10 years or more when properly stored, providing you with a long-term food supply.
- Space-saving: Canned hamburger takes up less space than frozen ground beef, making it ideal for storing in limited spaces.
- Convenience: Canned hamburger is ready to use, eliminating the need for thawing or cooking before consumption.
- Cost-effective: Canning hamburger in bulk can save you money compared to purchasing pre-canned products.
Materials You’ll Need
- Ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
- Canning jars with lids and rings
- Pressure canner
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
- Ladle or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen towels
- Salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef
- Remove any excess fat or gristle from the ground beef.
- If desired, season the ground beef with salt to enhance flavor (1 teaspoon per pound).
2. Fill the Jars
- Using a funnel, fill the canning jars with ground beef, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
- Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars on the counter.
3. Add Liquid (Optional)
- For extra moisture, you can add 1/4 cup of water or broth to each pint jar. This is not necessary, but it can help prevent the ground beef from drying out during storage.
4. Wipe the Rims
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to remove any food residue. This will ensure a proper seal.
5. Place the Lids and Rings
- Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings finger-tight. Do not overtighten.
6. Process in a Pressure Canner
- Place the jars in a pressure canner and fill it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Process the jars for the recommended time and pressure based on your altitude (see the processing times section below).
7. Cool and Store
- Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure canner to cool naturally.
- Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool for 12-24 hours before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Processing Times
- Pints (16 ounces): 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure
- Quarts (32 ounces): 90 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure
Safety Precautions
- Always follow the instructions for your specific pressure canner.
- Use only approved canning jars and lids.
- Do not can spoiled or contaminated ground beef.
- Ensure that the jars are properly sealed before storing them.
- If any jars do not seal properly, discard them.
- Do not consume canned hamburger that has an off odor or appearance.
Tips for Canning Hamburger
- For a more flavorful canned hamburger, brown it before canning.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, or peppers to the jars for extra flavor.
- Label the jars with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store canned hamburger in a cool, dark place for optimal shelf life.
Reusing Canned Hamburger
Canned hamburger can be used in a variety of recipes, including:
- Tacos
- Burgers
- Meatloaf
- Spaghetti sauce
- Chili
- Shepherd’s pie
Wrap Up: Preserve Your Hamburger for the Long Haul
Canning hamburger is a simple and effective way to preserve ground beef for long-term storage. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the convenience and cost-savings of having canned hamburger on hand for years to come.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use a water bath canner to can hamburger?
A: No, a water bath canner does not generate enough pressure to safely can ground beef. You must use a pressure canner.
Q: How long does canned hamburger last?
A: Canned hamburger can last for up to 10 years or more when properly stored in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the jars when canning hamburger?
A: Yes, you can add chopped onions, garlic, peppers, or other vegetables to the jars for extra flavor.
Q: What if a jar does not seal properly?
A: Discard any jars that do not seal properly. Do not consume the contents of unsealed jars.
Q: Can I freeze canned hamburger?
A: Yes, you can freeze canned hamburger for up to 3 months. However, freezing may slightly affect the texture and flavor.
