Preliminary sterilization of jars is a mandatory procedure for most preserves. If everything is done correctly, your canned goods will be stored for a long time and happily until they are eaten one fine day. Sterilization can be done in several different ways, which I will describe below. You can choose the most convenient method for yourself. And if you are already an experienced canner, share in the comments what your favorite method is 🙂
1. Sterilization in boiling water in a pot.
My favorite method, which I use all the time.
In a pot (preferably with a wide bottom), pour water and place well-washed jars upside down. The water level should be about 2-3 fingers high. Place on the stove, bring to a boil, and keep on medium heat. For small jars up to 0.5 liters – 7-8 minutes, 0.75-2 liters – 15 minutes, 3 liters – 20 minutes.
2. Sterilization in the oven.
Thoroughly wash the jars and place them in a cold oven. Turn it on to heat at 110-120 degrees and keep the jars for about 20 minutes. Turn off and leave for another 3-5 minutes. Remove the jars and use.
3. Sterilization in the microwave.
Suitable for small jars (up to 1 liter). Pour 1.5-2 cm of water into the jars and place them in the microwave. Set the power to 700-800 and keep for 3 minutes. Remove, pour out the water, and use.
4. Sterilization in a steamer.
Also suitable for small jars. Pour water into the steamer, place the rack, and turn it on. When steam appears, place the jars upside down on the rack and sterilize for the same time intervals as for the first method.
In addition to the described methods, housewives sterilize jars by hanging them on the spout of a kettle with boiling water, using a multicooker, or a sieve placed over boiling water in a pot. Essentially, these methods are derivatives of the above options with water and steam.
Sterilization of lids
Here, everything is as simple as possible. There’s no point in holding the lids for a long time – they only need a minute in boiling water. So, pour water into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, toss in the clean lids, and hold for a minute. Done!
How do you sterilize your jars?
Preliminary sterilization of jars is a mandatory procedure for most preserves. If everything is done correctly, your canned goods will be stored for a long time and happily until they are eaten one fine day. Sterilization can be carried out in several different ways, which I will describe below. You can choose the most convenient method for yourself. Well, if...