Are you a fan of green beans with bacon? Do you want to learn how to can this delicious dish at home?
Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of canning green beans with bacon. We’ll cover everything from the amount of bacon to use, to the best types of beans, and even some tips and tricks for achieving that perfect “cooked all to hell” flavor.
So grab your apron and let’s get started!
How To Can Green Beans With Bacon?
Before we dive into the canning process, it’s important to note that there are no processing recommendations for canning bacon. Therefore, it’s best to can the beans by themselves and add the bacon just before serving. Adding any fat or butter to home-canned products, unless specifically stated in the recipe, may result in an unsafe product.
Now, let’s talk about the beans. You can use canned, dehydrated, frozen, fresh, or store-bought canned beans for this recipe. Simply use an equivalent amount and cook as desired before adding the bacon.
When it comes to bacon, plan on using about 1 pound for every 9 quarts of green beans. However, the amount may vary depending on the type and cut of bacon you’re using. Feel free to get creative and try different types of bacon, such as peppered bacon for a delicious twist.
To begin the canning process, drain the bacon grease and leave about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Cook your green beans as desired and add them to the pan with the bacon. Let them simmer together for a few minutes before transferring them to your jars.
Be sure to leave enough headspace in your jars and follow proper canning procedures for your specific type of canner. Once your jars are processed and cooled, store them in a cool, dark place until ready to eat.
Why Can Green Beans With Bacon?
Adding bacon to green beans is a great way to enhance their flavor and make them more appealing to picky eaters. Bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the beans. Additionally, bacon contains fat which helps to tenderize the beans and prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.
Canning green beans with bacon is a great way to preserve this delicious flavor combination for later use. By canning them together, you can ensure that the bacon flavor is evenly distributed throughout the beans. Plus, canned green beans with bacon make for a quick and easy side dish that can be heated up in minutes.
When canning green beans with bacon, it’s important to note that there are no processing recommendations for canning bacon. Therefore, it’s best to can the beans by themselves and add the bacon just before serving. Adding any fat or butter to home-canned products, unless specifically stated in the recipe, may result in an unsafe product.
Equipment Needed For Canning Green Beans With Bacon
To can green beans with bacon, you will need the following equipment:
1. Pressure canner: Because green beans are low-acid, they must be canned in a pressure canner, not a water bath canner. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific canner.
2. Jars: Mason jars are the most commonly used for canning. Make sure to use jars that are specifically designed for canning and are free of cracks or chips.
3. Lids and bands: You will need both lids and bands to seal your jars. Make sure to use new lids each time you can, as they can only be used once.
4. Jar lifter: This tool is used to safely lift hot jars in and out of the canner.
5. Canning funnel: This funnel is designed to fit into the mouth of your jars and makes it easier to fill them without spilling.
6. Bubble remover tool: This tool is used to remove any air bubbles from your jars before sealing them.
7. Clean towels: Use clean towels to dry your jars and lids, as well as to protect your countertop from any spills.
8. Tongs or a magnetic lid lifter: These tools are used to safely remove hot lids from boiling water before placing them on your jars.
9. Large pot: You will need a large pot to boil water for processing your jars.
10. Bacon and green beans: Of course, you’ll also need the main ingredients for this recipe – bacon and green beans!
Choosing The Right Beans And Bacon
When it comes to choosing the right beans for canning with bacon, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the recipe above mentions using green beans, you can essentially use any type of bean you prefer, from navy beans to pinto beans to butter beans. However, it’s important to note that kidney beans and cannellini beans have tougher skins and require longer cooking times to soften, so they may not be the best choice for this recipe.
In terms of bacon, it’s essential to use thick-cut bacon so that it retains its meaty texture and doesn’t get lost in the beans. While the recipe above mentions using slab bacon or salt pork, it’s important to note that there are no processing recommendations for canning bacon. Therefore, it’s best to can the beans by themselves and add the bacon just before serving.
When choosing your bacon, consider trying different types of bacon for a unique twist on the classic recipe. For example, peppered bacon can add a delicious kick of flavor to your canned green beans.
