Are you tired of the high - sodium and additive - filled soups you find on store shelves? Look no further! In this article, we'll explore the wonderful world of DIY pressure canning soup recipes that are not only healthier but also guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.

Pressure canning is a time - honored method of food preservation that allows you to enjoy homemade soups all year round. Unlike store - bought options, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your soups are free from unnecessary chemicals and excessive salt.

Benefits of DIY Pressure Canning Soups

One of the primary benefits of making your own pressure - canned soups is the ability to customize the flavors. You can experiment with different combinations of vegetables, meats, and spices to create unique and delicious soups that suit your personal preferences. For example, if you love spicy food, you can add extra chili peppers or hot sauce to your soup recipe.

Another advantage is the cost - effectiveness. Buying canned soups from the store can add up over time, especially if you have a large family. By making your own soups at home, you can save money in the long run. You can also take advantage of seasonal produce, which is often more affordable and fresher.

Health is also a major factor. Store - bought soups are often loaded with sodium and additives to extend their shelf life and enhance flavor. By making your own soups, you can reduce your sodium intake and avoid artificial ingredients. This is particularly important for individuals with high blood pressure or other health concerns.

Getting Started with Pressure Canning

Before you start making your DIY pressure - canned soups, you'll need to gather the necessary equipment. A pressure canner is the most important tool. Make sure to choose a canner that is the right size for your needs. You'll also need canning jars, lids, and a jar lifter.

It's essential to follow proper canning procedures to ensure the safety of your soups. Start by sterilizing your jars and lids. You can do this by boiling them in water for a few minutes. Next, prepare your soup recipe. You can use a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, beans, and grains.

Once your soup is ready, carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands.

Now it's time to place the jars in the pressure canner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific canner. Make sure to add the appropriate amount of water to the canner. Once the canner is pressurized, set the timer according to the recipe requirements.

Delicious DIY Pressure Canning Soup Recipes

1. Vegetable Medley Soup

This soup is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. You'll need carrots, celery, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, and your choice of herbs and spices. Start by sautéing the onions and celery in a large pot until they are tender. Add the carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. Pour in some vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Ladle the soup into jars and process in the pressure canner.

2. Chicken and Rice Soup

For this recipe, you'll need cooked chicken, rice, carrots, celery, onions, and chicken broth. Sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in a pot. Add the cooked chicken and rice. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a little bit of thyme. Fill the jars with the soup and pressure - can as directed.

3. Lentil Soup

Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber. To make lentil soup, you'll need lentils, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add the lentils and tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the lentils are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cumin. Transfer the soup to jars and can it under pressure.

In conclusion, DIY pressure canning soups are a wonderful way to enjoy healthy, delicious, and customized soups throughout the year. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a pantry full of homemade goodness that will please your palate and keep your family well - nourished.