Butternut squash is a versatile and tasty winter squash that’s perfect for roasting, soups, and stews. If you’ve ever wondered how to can butternut squash to enjoy it year-round, you’re in the right place! Canning is a fantastic way to preserve the squash’s sweet, nutty flavor and have it ready whenever you want without worrying about spoilage.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about canning butternut squash safely and easily, so you can enjoy this nutritious veggie long after the harvest season.
Why Can Butternut Squash?
Canning butternut squash helps you:
– Preserve the squash for months without refrigeration.
– Save money by buying in bulk or using your homegrown harvest.
– Have ready-to-use squash for quick meals like soups, casseroles, and purees.
– Reduce food waste by storing surplus squash.
What You’ll Need to Can Butternut Squash
Before you start, gather these essentials:
– Fresh butternut squash (choose firm, unblemished ones)
– Large pot for boiling or steaming
– Pressure canner (recommended for low-acid vegetables like squash)
– Canning jars with lids and bands (pint or quart size)
– Jar lifter and funnel
– Clean towels and kitchen gloves
Step-by-Step Guide: How Do You Can Butternut Squash?
1. Prepare the Butternut Squash
– Wash the squash thoroughly under running water.
– Cut off both ends with a sharp knife.
– Peel the squash using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. The skin is smooth and relatively thin, so peeling is straightforward.
– Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon.
– Chop the squash into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and packing.
2. Cook the Squash
– You can either boil or steam the cubes until they are tender but still firm. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes of boiling or 5 minutes of steaming.
– Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy texture after canning.
3. Pack the Jars
– Using a jar funnel, pack the hot butternut squash cubes into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
– Add boiling water, broth, or tomato juice to cover the squash cubes, maintaining the 1-inch headspace.
– Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic spatula around the inside of the jar.
– Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
– Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.
4. Process the Jars in a Pressure Canner
– Place the jars in the pressure canner with a few inches of water at the bottom.
– Follow your pressure canner’s instructions carefully. Typically, you will process pint jars for about 35 minutes and quart jars for about 40 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure (adjusted for altitude).
– Processing time and pressure are crucial for safety because butternut squash is a low-acid vegetable.
5. Cool and Store
– After processing, turn off the heat and let the pressure canner depressurize naturally.
– Remove the jars carefully and place them on a towel or rack to cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
– Check seals by pressing the center of each lid; it should not flex up and down.
– Label your jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success When Canning Butternut Squash
– Always use a pressure canner for butternut squash because boiling water bath canning is unsafe for low-acid foods.
– Use fresh, high-quality squash for the best flavor and texture.
– Keep your jars and lids clean and sterilized to prevent contamination.
– Don’t overcrowd the jars; leave enough headspace for expansion during processing.
– If you want extra flavor, add herbs or spices after opening the jar rather than before canning.
Using Your Canned Butternut Squash
Once canned, butternut squash is incredibly versatile:
– Add it directly to soups and stews.
– Mash it for a quick side dish.
– Blend it into smoothies or sauces.
– Use it in casseroles or pasta dishes.
– Puree it for baby food or baking recipes.
Canning butternut squash is a rewarding way to keep this delicious vegetable on hand all year. With just a little preparation and the right equipment, you can enjoy the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash anytime you want!