The necessary equipment for sterilization

The choice of equipment is individual, but here is the basis of what any good cook needs to sterilize his jars with confidence.

Glass jars

Several types of jars can be used for sterilization. They come in all shapes and sizes!

Jars with mechanical seal (Le Parfait type with metal strapping and rubber washer) or with hook closure (Weck type with 2 small hooks that keep the seal and the lid closed). The glass is thick and makes the jars very sturdy. The closure system is easy to use and safe thanks to the natural rubber gaskets which allow the jars to be sealed.

Twist Off jars (or T.O. jars), also called lidded jars. These are most of the glass jars that we are used to buying in stores, such as jars of fruit compotes or jars of jam for example. Twist-Off jars have a metal lid that screws on in ¼ turn. It is by cooling after sterilization that a pressure difference is made and the jar is airtight.

It is strongly recommended to change the rubber gaskets as well as the metal lids after each sterilization to ensure a good seal of the jars.

The method of sterilization

The key is to have a container large enough to put the jars in, and which can heat to at least 100 ° C. This could be a large pot, a pressure cooker or a pot for example. It all depends on the size of the jars you want to sterilize and the desired comfort.

There are also electric sterilizers which have many advantages to make your life easier.

- Its automatic operation: It is equipped with a thermostat that allows precise temperature control and a timer that automatically stops sterilization. All you have to do is adjust the temperature and sterilization time, then the device takes care of everything! A saving of precious time for your daily life.

- The fact that it is electric makes it possible to place it in any room: in a kitchen but also on a balcony, a garage, and why not in a living room or a bathroom.

- The bottom grid which prevents the jars from colliding with the bowl. Without sterilizer, it is necessary to wedge tea towels.

- Thanks to its large tank, the sterilizer can have other uses, such as reducing tomato sauces into coulis, making homemade soups or stew, storing drinks (hot or cold) there thanks to the tap which allows to distribute drinks, make homemade yogurts, etc ...

The accessories

It is necessary to correctly identify its canning jars using labels or markers. The essential information to write down is the type of food stored and the date of preparation. But other more detailed indications can also be useful such as the addition of a specific spice, the presence of allergens or the sterilization time. It's up to everyone to choose their own way of labeling their jars!

An accessory that we can do without but which is still very practical is the jar opener! This accessory is especially interesting for people who have difficulty opening jars, such as the elderly for example. The jar opener is also useful for opening store-bought jars.

Finally, the jar clamp is a functional object for removing still hot jars from the sterilizer.

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