How to Can Banana Peppers: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

If you have an abundance of banana peppers from your garden, canning them is a great way to preserve their flavor and enjoy them all year round. The process is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients and tools. Follow this easy guide to can your banana peppers at home!

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by thoroughly rinsing your banana peppers to remove any dirt. Once clean, decide how you want to can them—either whole or sliced into rings. If you prefer a seed-free experience, scoop out the seeds before moving forward.

Step 2: Sterilize Your Jars

Before packing your peppers, sterilize your canning jars to prevent contamination. You can do this by placing them in an oven at 250°F for 10 minutes or by boiling them in a large pot of water. Make sure your lids and bands are also clean and ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Brine

For the brine, you will need:

6 cups vinegar

2 cups water

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon pickling salt

Combine all the ingredients in a pot and bring the mixture to a boil. This brine will enhance the flavor and ensure proper preservation of the peppers.

Step 4: Pack the Jars

Once your jars are sterilized, pack them tightly with the banana peppers. Pour the hot brine over the peppers, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top of each jar. If you have extra brine, save it for future canning projects.

Step 5: Seal the Jars

Make sure the rims of the jars are dry before placing the lids. Dip the lids in boiling water for a few seconds to sterilize them, then place them on the jars and secure with the bands. Tighten the bands firmly but not overly tight.

Step 6: Water Bath Canning

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the sealed jars into the boiling water, ensuring they are submerged with at least an inch of water covering them. Process the jars in the water bath for 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Store

After 10 minutes, remove the jars carefully and place them on a towel. Let them cool undisturbed for 24 hours. During this time, you may hear a popping sound as the lids seal. Avoid shaking or tilting the jars.

Once cooled, check that all lids have sealed properly. If any lids did not seal, store those jars in the refrigerator and use them first. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for long-term enjoyment.

Enjoy Your Homemade Canned Banana Peppers!

Canning banana peppers is an easy and rewarding process. Whether you use them in sandwiches, salads, or as a tangy topping, these peppers add a delicious homemade touch to your meals. Give this method a try and savor the flavors of your garden all year long!