Get Canning with the Right Products at Ace Hardware

We all love the nostalgic, comforting reminders that certain aromas and tastes provide. Maybe the jam on your toast at the local diner is great, but not as delicious as your grandmother’s strawberry preserves. Perhaps that fresh asparagus is good, but it’s just not the same snack as your neighbor’s famous pickled version.

As we enter prime harvest time for several crops in Illinois, many farmers, and families like yours have begun the annual process of canning – a time-honored tradition that many people use to capture those classic flavors and experiences.

The canning process can be a little tedious – even intimidating – for beginners. But having the right canning products can make a world of difference, and the experience will go much smoother. At Ace Hardware of Dixon, we proudly stock the right products for you, so your canning projects will turn out great. Here are some of the most important tools of the trade.

Types of Canners

Water bath canners – these are for foods rich in acid like pickles, tomatoes, or jams and jellies.

Pressure canners – Use these for everything else: Green beans, corn, soup, etc.

Use the Right Jar for the Job

Jars are available in many sizes, so you’ll want to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. This depends on portion size and even which kind of food you’ll be canning.

½ Gallon – Great for preserved juice or dried goods.

Quart – Perfect for fruit, tomato sauce, salsas, soup, and vegetables.

½ Pint – This size is great for jams and jellies, or smaller portions of sauces and soups.

¼ Pint – These little guys work well for condiments like ketchup, mustard, or even small jams.

In addition to the canners and jars, you’ll need some other special tools to make the job easier such as funnels to keep from spilling liquid, and jar lifters to safely remove hot jars out of the canner.

These are just a few tips to help you get started – or continue – your canning projects with the right products from Ace Hardware. For more information, visit our website or call us at 815-288-7841.

Ace Hardware & Outdoor Center

900 N Galena Ave

Dixon, IL 61021