Though I was a bit hesitant to get started, canning was all I could think about late last week as a huge load of tomatoes began the process of decaying on my kitchen counter. I borrowed a large canner with a rack from a friend, purchased a jar lifter and wide-mouthed funnel from a hardware store of all places (thanks, TG!), had two girlfriends and my mom on call, waited for Punkin Baby to take a nap, and then jumped right in. I used one Mrs. Wages salsa seasoning packet and, voila, now I am the proud owner of five pints of homemade salsa.
At the time the steam clouds disappeared from the room, however, I wasn’t so proud of my handiwork. ALL that labor and effort, all that tomato juice that splurched uncontrollably over my countertops, all the boiling of jars and lids and salsa — and only five glass jars to show for it? But then, something greatly encouraging happened: Renae oooohed and aaaahed over my jars, calling them “beautiful” and other such complimentary words. Her sweet cheering lifted my soul and made me proud of what I had accomplished for the first time.
Go ooh and aah over someone’s five pints today. I’m sure there’s a tired canner near you who needs a cheerleader.
8 Comments
Lindsey Aug 29, 2006 12:06 PM
All the women in my family are canners and I have often been recruited into the process, so I know that it is a LOT OF WORK. But so so worth it. I hate the smell of canning tomatoes, but my mom has often spent every afternoon for two weeks canning and then we get to enjoy the fruits of the labor for a long time to come. Salsa I think is harder than canning peaches (yum) but look at it this way: it’ll be fresh for several years. THAT is something to brag about.
Jeremy Aug 29, 2006 12:18 PM
Ditto on the “beautiful” comment. I *really* like the picture.
kristen Aug 29, 2006 1:22 PM
I am so impressed! They do look beautiful and I am sure they will taste glorious! I can’t wait to start gardening next year… :o)
Bethany Aug 29, 2006 5:56 PM
It looks great, Bec! Now you just need to have me over so I can taste and see if it’s as good as it looks. :)
Mom L Aug 29, 2006 8:15 PM
You are the best self-taught cook I know!! You’ve come a long way from calling home from STL for confirmation on how to cook the basics. Love you always, your proud Mama.
Aubrey Aug 31, 2006 6:12 AM
They do look nice! Last year, I learned how to make jam and can it, so I definitely understand the mess. But they make such great gifts, plus I really do love the look of home-canned items.
Jill Aug 31, 2006 10:43 AM
I’m with Bethany on this one. Your salsa looks – and surely tastes – delicioso!!
Rebecca A. Sep 5, 2006 11:19 AM
WOW it looks amazing. If you are interested I have a recipe that I often use. I make it in the blender of all things. It is quite a simple recipe since you do not have to do alot of fine chopping. It is from Andy’s grandmother who is from Jalisco Mexico.
Rebecca A.