Surviving in today's world can be challenging, and many people are looking for ways to become more self-sufficient. One way to achieve this is by preserving your own food, especially fruits. Preserving fruit at home is not only a great way to save money but also ensures that you have access to fresh and healthy fruit all year round. In this article, we will explore some simple ways to preserve fruit at home.

See references at the end of this article for more detailed instructions!

Canning

Canning is a popular method for preserving fruit that involves heating and sealing the fruit in a jar. The process is relatively simple, and all you need is a canning kit, jars, lids, and fruit. To can fruit, start by washing and peeling the fruit, then pack it into jars. Next, add a sweetener if desired, then pour in boiling water or syrup. Finally, use a canning kit to seal the jars and place them in a water bath to process.

Freezing

Freezing is another excellent method for preserving fruit, and it's easy to do at home. To freeze fruit, start by washing and slicing it, then arrange the fruit in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the fruit is frozen, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen fruit can be used for smoothies, pies, or as a healthy snack.

Drying

Drying fruit is a time-honored method of preservation that has been used for centuries. To dry fruit at home, start by washing and slicing the fruit, then arrange it on a baking sheet or dehydrator tray. Set the oven or dehydrator to a low temperature and leave the fruit to dry for several hours or overnight. Once the fruit is completely dry, store it in an airtight container.

Fermenting

Fermenting fruit is a unique way to preserve it, and it's also a great way to promote gut health. To ferment fruit at home, start by washing and chopping the fruit, then place it in a sterilized jar. Add water, sugar, and a starter culture, then cover the jar with a lid and leave it to ferment for several days. Once the fruit is fermented, store it in the fridge or pantry.

In conclusion, preserving fruit at home is an excellent way to ensure that you have access to fresh and healthy fruit all year round. Whether you choose canning, freezing, drying, or fermenting, there's a preservation method that's right for you. With a little bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can preserve your favorite fruits and enjoy them long after their growing season has ended.

Here are some great resources to get you started!

Canning:

• Ball Canning. (2021). Beginner's Guide to Canning. Retrieved from https://www.freshpreserving.com/beginners-guide-to-canning---learn-to-can.html
• United States Department of Agriculture. (2015). Complete Guide to Home Canning. Retrieved from https://naldc-legacy.nal.usda.gov/naldc/download.xhtml?id=CAT87202115&content=PDF
• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. (2014). Canning Basics for Preserving Food. Retrieved from https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=C819-1
• National Center for Home Food Preservation. (2020). How Do I Can? Retrieved from https://nchfp.uga.edu/how/can_home.html

Freezing:

• Better Homes & Gardens. (2021). How to Freeze Fruit. Retrieved from https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-to/cooking-basics/how-to-freeze-fruit/
• Michigan State University Extension. (2021). Freezing Fruits and Vegetables. Retrieved from https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/freezing_fruits_and_vegetables
• The Kitchn. (2021). A Guide to Freezing Summer Fruits. Retrieved from https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-freeze-summer-fruit-22937422
• University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Freezing Fruits. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/preserving-and-preparing/freezing-fruits

Drying:

• American Heart Association. (2019). Drying Fruits and Vegetables. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/drying-fruits-and-vegetables
• Food Network. (2021). How to Dry Fruit at Home. Retrieved from https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-news/how-to-dry-fruit-at-home
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Drying Fruits and Vegetables. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UC_Master_Food_Preserver_Program/Food_Preservation_by_Method/Drying/
• Oregon State University Extension Service. (2018). Drying Fruits and Vegetables. Retrieved from https://extension.oregonstate.edu/food/preservation/drying-fruits-and-vegetables

Fermenting:

• Food & Wine. (2021). The Beginner's Guide to Fermenting Fruit. Retrieved from https://www.foodandwine.com/how/ferment-fruit
• The Spruce Eats. (2021). How to Ferment Fruit. Retrieved from https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-ferment-fruit-4797353
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (2021). Fermenting Fruits and Vegetables. Retrieved from https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/safepreserving/2021/05/17/fermenting-fruits-and-vegetables/
• Bon Appétit. (2018). How to Ferment Any Fruit (Nope, Not Just Apples). Retrieved from https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-ferment-fruit