Read this Do You Need To Add Lemon Juice When Canning Applesauce article to find useful information for you, all summarized well by us.
Do You Need to Add Lemon Juice When Canning Applesauce?
Canning applesauce is a great way to preserve your summer harvest and enjoy the sweet taste of apples all year long. But do you need to add lemon juice when canning applesauce? The answer is yes, and here’s why.
Lemon juice helps to prevent the applesauce from turning brown. Apples contain a chemical called polyphenol oxidase, which causes them to brown when exposed to air. Lemon juice is a natural source of vitamin C, which inhibits the activity of polyphenol oxidase and keeps the applesauce from turning brown.
Using Lemon Juice in Canning Applesauce
To prevent browning, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice per quart of applesauce. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor. Once the applesauce is canned, it will keep for up to a year in a cool, dark place.
In addition to preventing browning, lemon juice also helps to preserve the applesauce’s flavor and texture. Applesauce made with lemon juice will have a brighter, more tart flavor than applesauce made without it. Lemon juice also helps to prevent the applesauce from becoming too thick or mushy.
Tips for Canning Applesauce
- Use firm, ripe apples for the best results.
- Peel and core the apples before canning them.
- Add sugar to taste, if desired.
- Process the applesauce in a water bath canner for 15 minutes per quart.
- Store the canned applesauce in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
A: Yes, you can use lime juice instead of lemon juice. Lime juice has a similar acidity level to lemon juice, so it will work just as well for preventing browning.
Q: How long will canned applesauce last?
A: Canned applesauce will last for up to a year in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I freeze canned applesauce?
A: Yes, you can freeze canned applesauce. However, it is important to thaw the applesauce completely before eating it, as the freezing process can cause the applesauce to separate.
Conclusion
Adding lemon juice to canned applesauce is a simple way to prevent browning and preserve the applesauce’s flavor and texture. By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious, homemade applesauce all year long.
Are you interested in learning more about canning applesauce or other home canning techniques? Leave a comment below and let us know!
Image: www.ag.ndsu.edu
We express our gratitude for your visit to our site and for reading Do You Need To Add Lemon Juice When Canning Applesauce. We hope this article is beneficial for you.