Green beans in water

Canned green beans in water

Of course, summer is the ideal season to enjoy the fresh flavors of vegetables, but what do you do when the season changes and the desire to savor the taste of summer fades? An excellent solution is canning green beans, and the recipe we will explore together today will help you enjoy these delicious vegetables all year round. Get ready for a culinary adventure full of flavor, where we will transform green beans into a dish that can be enjoyed anytime.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Sterilization time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 1.7 kg

Ingredients:
- 7 kg fresh wide green beans
- 1 tablespoon of salt (ideally pickling salt)
- Celery leaves (finely chopped)
- 6 aspirin (for preservation)

Recipe history
Canning vegetables is an ancient practice used by generations to ensure food during winter. This technique was developed out of the necessity to keep food in optimal conditions without compromising its nutrients. Green beans have always been appreciated for their crunchy texture and delicate flavor, and canning them preserves these qualities.

Step by step: Your guide to perfectly canned green beans

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the green beans well under cold running water. Choose fresh, firm beans without spots or signs of damage. Cut off the ends of each pod, and if you wish, you can cut them into smaller pieces, about 5 cm long. This will make it easier to handle the beans in the jars.

2. Blanch the beans
In a large pot, add water and a tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the beans and the finely chopped celery leaves. Let the beans boil for 4-5 minutes. Blanching will help eliminate bacteria and preserve the vibrant color of the beans.

3. Prepare the jars
While the beans are blanching, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and sterilized to prevent contamination. You can sterilize them in boiling water or place them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 10-15 minutes.

4. Fill the jars
After the beans have been blanched, remove them from the pot and let them drain a little. Use a funnel for jars to fill each jar with beans. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the jar to add water.

5. Add aspirin and water
To keep the beans preserved, add one aspirin to each jar. This will help prevent fermentation. Then, pour the water in which the beans were blanched, filling the jars to the brim.

6. Seal the jars
Close each jar with an airtight lid. Make sure they are tightly closed to prevent air from entering.

7. Sterilize the jars
Place the jars in boiling water, ensuring they are completely covered. Sterilize them for 40 minutes from the moment the water starts to boil. This process is essential for ensuring long-term preservation.

8. Cool the jars
After sterilization, leave the jars in the pot with hot water and cover them with blankets. This will help the jars cool gradually, preventing them from breaking. Leave them like this until the next day.

Practical tips for a perfect result
- Choose fresh, seasonal green beans for the best results.
- Use pickling salt for better preservation.
- Aspirin is a popular ingredient in preservation, but if you don’t want to use it, you can opt for other preservation methods.
- Check the jars before storing them. If you notice any changes in the seal or contents, do not consume them.

Nutritional benefits
Green beans are rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), with low calorie content, making them an ideal food in diets. They are an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining intestinal health.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other vegetables to can in the same way?
Yes, you can also can carrots, peas, or peppers using a similar technique. Make sure to adjust the blanching time according to the vegetables you choose.

2. How should jars be stored after sterilization?
Store the jars in a cool, dark, and dry place. They can be kept for several years, but it is best to consume them within a year for the best flavors.

3. What can I do with canned green beans?
Canned green beans are perfect for salads, side dishes, or as an ingredient in various dishes, such as stews or soups. You can serve them alongside meat or include them in vegetarian dishes.

Possible variations
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few peppercorns or a few cloves of garlic to the jars. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as dill or oregano, to give a unique taste.

Serving suggestion
To enjoy canned green beans, you can sauté them lightly in olive oil with garlic and spices, then serve them as a delicious side dish alongside grilled meat. This will bring back summer memories even on the coldest winter days.

So, get ready to enjoy the taste of summer all year round with this simple recipe for canned green beans in water! Once you try it, you’ll want to include it in your canning routine year after year. Savor each jar as a piece of summer, wrapped in the flavors of nature!