What To Know
- By following a few simple steps and understanding the principles of canning, you can create jars of homemade chicken pot pie filling that will delight your family and friends.
- Canning is a method of preserving food by heating it to a high temperature and sealing it in airtight containers.
- Using a canning funnel, fill the hot jars with the chicken pot pie filling, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
Canning chicken pot pie filling is a rewarding culinary endeavor that allows you to preserve the flavors of this beloved comfort food for future enjoyment. By following a few simple steps and understanding the principles of canning, you can create jars of homemade chicken pot pie filling that will delight your family and friends.
Understanding the Basics of Canning
Canning is a method of preserving food by heating it to a high temperature and sealing it in airtight containers. This process kills harmful bacteria and creates a vacuum that prevents spoilage. Chicken pot pie filling is an ideal candidate for canning because it is a low-acid food that requires pressure canning to ensure safety.
Equipment You’ll Need
To can chicken pot pie filling, you will need the following equipment:
- Pressure canner
- Jars and lids
- Jar lifter
- Canning funnel
- Bubble popper or chopstick
- Clean cloths or towels
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Filling
The ingredients for chicken pot pie filling can vary depending on your preferences, but the following are some common ingredients:
- Cooked chicken
- Vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and peas)
- Chicken broth
- Cream of chicken soup
- Spices (such as salt, pepper, and herbs)
Step-by-Step Canning Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken and vegetables: Cook the chicken and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Peel and chop the vegetables.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chicken, vegetables, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Prepare the jars and lids: Wash the jars and lids thoroughly in hot soapy water. Rinse and sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep the jars and lids hot until ready to use.
4. Fill the jars: Using a canning funnel, fill the hot jars with the chicken pot pie filling, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
5. Remove air bubbles: Use a bubble popper or chopstick to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
6. Wipe the rims: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any excess filling.
7. Place the lids and bands: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands finger-tight.
8. Process in the pressure canner: Place the jars in the pressure canner and fill it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Process the jars for the recommended time at the appropriate pressure for your altitude.
9. Cool and store: Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pressure canner cool down naturally. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
Tips for Canning Success
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Follow the canning instructions carefully.
- Make sure the jars are properly sealed before processing.
- Process the jars for the recommended time at the appropriate pressure.
- Cool the jars completely before storing them.
Troubleshooting Canning Problems
- Jars did not seal: The jars may not have been properly sealed before processing, or the processing time may have been too short.
- Jars have bubbles: Air bubbles may have formed during the filling or processing. Use a bubble popper or chopstick to remove any bubbles before sealing the jars.
- Jars are cloudy: The filling may have been too thick, or the jars may not have been processed for long enough.
- Food in the jars has spoiled: The jars may not have been properly sealed or processed, or the food may have been contaminated before canning.
Enjoying Your Canned Chicken Pot Pie Filling
Once you have successfully canned chicken pot pie filling, you can enjoy it in various ways:
- Use it as a filling for homemade chicken pot pies.
- Add it to soups or stews.
- Serve it over biscuits or mashed potatoes.
Wrapping Up
Canning chicken pot pie filling is a rewarding and practical way to preserve this delicious comfort food. By following the steps outlined above and understanding the principles of canning, you can create jars of homemade filling that will bring joy and nourishment to your family and friends for months to come.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long can I store canned chicken pot pie filling?
A: Canned chicken pot pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
Q: What are the signs of spoilage in canned chicken pot pie filling?
A: Signs of spoilage include bulging lids, leaks, or an off odor.
Q: Can I use canned chicken pot pie filling to make chicken pot pie soup?
A: Yes, you can add canned chicken pot pie filling to chicken broth or vegetable broth to make a quick and easy soup.
