Can Corn Chowder Be Canned? Find Out The Answer Here!

Canning is a fantastic way to preserve food and extend its shelf life. It allows you to enjoy your favorite dishes even when fresh ingredients are not available. One of the most popular dishes to can is corn chowder, a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for cold weather. But can corn chowder be canned?

The Answer

Yes, corn chowder can be canned. However, it is important to note that certain precautions must be taken to ensure the safety and quality of the canned chowder.

Safety Precautions

• Use a pressure canner: Pressure canning is the only safe method for canning corn chowder. This is because corn chowder contains low-acid ingredients, which can allow harmful bacteria to grow. Pressure canning creates a high-temperature environment that kills bacteria and prevents spoilage.
• Follow the recipe carefully: Always follow the recipe you are using for canning corn chowder. Do not alter the ingredients or proportions, as this could affect the safety of the canned product.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your canned corn chowder will depend on the quality of the ingredients you use. Be sure to use fresh, high-quality corn, potatoes, and other vegetables.
• Sterilize your jars and lids: Before filling the jars with corn chowder, sterilize them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. This will kill any bacteria that may be present on the jars or lids.

Canning Instructions

1. Prepare the corn chowder according to your desired recipe.
2. Fill the sterilized jars with the corn chowder, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
3. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
4. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings finger-tight.
5. Process the jars in a pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For half-pint jars, process for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure; for pint jars, process for 90 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure.
6. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Storage and Shelf Life

Properly canned corn chowder will have a shelf life of up to 1 year. However, it is important to check the jars for any signs of spoilage before consuming the chowder. Discard any jars that are bulging, leaking, or have an off odor.

Tips for Canning Corn Chowder

• Use sweet corn: Sweet corn will give your chowder a sweeter flavor.
• Add other vegetables: In addition to corn, you can add other vegetables to your chowder, such as potatoes, carrots, and celery.
• Use a creamy base: A creamy base will give your chowder a richer flavor. You can use milk, cream, or a combination of both.
• Season to taste: Be sure to season your chowder to taste. You can add salt, pepper, herbs, and spices to your liking.
• Serve with your favorite toppings: Serve your canned corn chowder with your favorite toppings, such as croutons, bacon bits, or shredded cheese.

Wrapping Up

Canning corn chowder is a great way to preserve this delicious soup and enjoy it all year long. By following the safety precautions and canning instructions outlined in this post, you can safely can corn chowder and enjoy it for months to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn to make canned corn chowder?

Yes, you can use frozen corn to make canned corn chowder. However, be sure to thaw the corn completely before using it.

Can I add meat to my canned corn chowder?

Yes, you can add meat to your canned corn chowder. However, be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the chowder.

How long can I store canned corn chowder?

Properly canned corn chowder will have a shelf life of up to 1 year. However, it is important to check the jars for any signs of spoilage before consuming the chowder.