Canning Tips for Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Meat

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade spaghetti sauce with meat, and canning your own sauce allows you to enjoy it all year long. The process of canning spaghetti sauce with meat can seem daunting at first, but with the right tips and a good recipe, it can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Here are some tips for canning homemade spaghetti sauce with meat, along with a tasty recipe to try.

1. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes: The key to a delicious spaghetti sauce is using fresh, ripe tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes, and consider using a mix of different varieties for a more complex flavor.

2. Brown the meat first: If you’re adding meat to your spaghetti sauce, be sure to brown it first. This will help develop a rich, savory flavor and ensure that the meat is fully cooked before canning.

3. Add plenty of herbs and spices: A good spaghetti sauce is loaded with herbs and spices, so don’t be shy with your seasonings. Fresh basil, oregano, and garlic are all classic choices, but you can also experiment with other flavors like thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes.

4. Use a canning recipe: When it comes to canning spaghetti sauce with meat, it’s important to use a recipe that has been specifically developed for canning. This will ensure that the sauce is safe to store at room temperature and will keep for an extended period of time.

5. Sterilize your jars and equipment: Before you start canning, be sure to properly sterilize your jars and equipment. This will help prevent any bacteria from contaminating your sauce and ensure that it stays safe to eat.

Here’s a delicious recipe for homemade spaghetti sauce with meat that is perfect for canning:

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce with Meat

Ingredients:
– 10 lbs fresh, ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the fresh basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. If using, add the red wine.
4. Simmer the sauce for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
5. While the sauce is simmering, prepare your canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in boiling water.
6. Once the sauce is ready, ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, and then seal them with the lids and rings.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes.
8. Carefully remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel. Check that the lids have sealed properly before storing the jars in a cool, dark place.

By following these canning tips and using a tried-and-true recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious taste of homemade spaghetti sauce with meat all year long. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, using it as a base for pizza, or simply enjoying it on its own, your canned sauce will be sure to impress.