Pressure canning is an excellent way to preserve the goodness of pork while providing delicious meals that are ready at a moment's notice. From tender pulled pork to hearty soups, this method not only extends shelf life but also retains flavors and nutrients, making it a win-win for meal prep enthusiasts. Dive into these savory recipes that bring the best of pressure-canned pork to your kitchen!
Why Choose Pressure Canning?
Preservation Power
Pressure canning is perfect for low-acid foods like meat. By cooking at high temperatures, you eliminate harmful bacteria, creating a shelf-stable product that you can store for years.
Convenient Meal Solutions
Canned pork means quick dinners! On busy nights, you can pull out a jar of savory pork and whip up a hearty meal in minutes, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Infusion
The canning process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You'll find that the seasoning deepens, providing a robust taste in every bite.
Recipe 1: Flavor-Packed Pulled Pork
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks.
- Season It Up: In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork chunks.
- Sear the Pork (optional): For added flavor, sear the pork in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step can enhance the depth of flavor but is not necessary.
- Pack the Jars: Place the seasoned pork into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about an inch of headspace. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and a little barbecue sauce into each jar, ensuring it covers the pork.
- Seal and Pressure Can: Wipe the rims, place the lids on, and process in a pressure canner at 10-11 pounds of pressure for 75 minutes for pints or 90 minutes for quarts.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your pulled pork with coleslaw on a bun, atop nachos, or mixed into tacos for a delicious dinner treat!
Recipe 2: Hearty Pork and Bean Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork loin, cubed
- 1 cup dried beans (navy or pinto)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Soak the Beans: Overnight soak the beans in water, or use the quick soak method.
- Brown the Pork: In a large pot, brown the cubed pork loin over medium heat, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine and Cook: Add the beans, browned pork, chicken broth, tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender (about 1-2 hours).
- Pressure Can: Pack the hot soup into jars, leaving an inch of headspace. Process in a pressure canner at the appropriate pressure for your altitude (usually 10-11 pounds) for 75 minutes for pints or 90 minutes for quarts.
- Cool and Store: Allow to cool and check the seals before storing.
Serving Suggestions:
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day! Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal.
Creative Twists for Canned Pork
1. Pork Fried Rice
Use your canned pork as the protein base for a quick fried rice dish. Just sauté cooked rice with veggies and soy sauce, then add in the pulled pork for a flavorful finish.
2. Breakfast Hash
Mix canned pork with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Cook until crispy and serve topped with a sunny-side-up egg for a delicious brunch option.
3. BBQ Pork Pizza
Spread barbecue sauce over pizza dough, top with canned pulled pork, onions, and cheese, and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Canning Craze!
Pressure canning pork not only offers convenience but also opens a world of culinary possibilities. Each jar becomes a ticket to an easy meal, packed with flavor and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner canning expert, and get creative with these delicious pork recipes. Your future self will thank you when it’s time for dinner!
