October 4, 2022 – University of Illinois Extension is partnering with Mt. Zion District Library to bring a class titled “Preserving Made Easy” from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Mt. Zion District Library. This free class will cover the basics of safe home canning, freezing, dehydration, and fermentation.
The winter months will soon be here, bringing snow, ice, and colder temperatures. Nobody enjoys driving on ice-packed roads, but if you need groceries, that’s a different story. Every family has to eat, and a trip to the store is required if dinner is a big pot of vegetable soup. What if you could open your cabinet and take out a couple of jars of vegetables, or open the freezer and find some garden fresh vegetables ready to use? Participants can learn a new skill or refresh their knowledge of home food preservation just in time to prepare those garden vegetables to use on that cold winter day.
Participants will prepare a jar of sauerkraut to take home and ferment. This class will also offer free testing for dial-gauge pressure canner lids. Participants should only bring the canner lid with gauge attached and not the canner base.
“Preserving foods at home is a great way to reduce food waste and increase the shelf life of your summer garden harvest, farmers market buys, and extras from the grocery store,” says Nutrition and Wellness Educator Caitlin Mellendorf.
Participants may register in person or by calling the Mt.Zion District Library at 217-864-3622. The deadline to register is Oct. 20. For questions, please contact Caitlin at 217-877-6042.
