Getting started with baby steps

[Wolfhound89]

Hello. I am truly as much of a newbie to this as one can be. I have watched my grandma and mom do it over 25 years ago I thought it was about time I start doing some canning. Plus, I can show my kiddos how to do it.

My initial motivation was to make my own pickles. So, I bought a book and began reading it. It has been good information so far. Many months ago I picked up a VP05 electric mason jar vacuum sealer at a garage sale. I have had great success with other hobbies by diving into the forums, searching and asking questions.

My goals in '26 are pickles, maybe some salsa or hatch peppers.

Thank you.

 

[keepcanning]

Hello, welcome!
I have done refrigerator pickles, but not canned.
I have done a lot of salsa, using Mrs. Wages salsa seasoning. Super simple to get started with salsa! I've used fresh tomatoes that were frozen (a friend shared from their garden), let sit as they unthawed, and all excess liquid drained. I did add a tiny can of tomato paste as it simmered on the stove to help soak up the excess moisture. (I did not skin or seed. Just pulsed in food processor). That turned out a great consistency!
Normally I use canned tomatoes tho...much more cost effective in rural Alaska. Ha!

Best of luck with pickles this year!!

 

[Wolfhound89]

Thank you for the welcome.

I will look up some refrigerator pickles recipes and get started. I am a fan of salsa, so that does spark some interest.

 

[Alan]

Thank you for the welcome.

I will look up some refrigerator pickles recipes and get started. I am a fan of salsa, so that does spark some interest.

How's the search and preparation coming along?