Homegrown: Food Preservation and Canning 101

Some of my summer meals are made entirely of what's growing in my garden. Emy Sautter of Prairiewoods in Hiawatha, passed along the following about ways to extend that healthy eating:

Are you dreading the end of summer because it means you will no longer have fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs from your garden? Learn to preserve your harvest so that you can enjoy it all year long in this two-hour course at Prairiewoods.

On Thursday, September 6, from 6 to 8 p.m., Jill Weber of Iowa State University Extension will teach you about canning, freezing and drying. Because food safety recommendations and methods are constantly evolving, Jill will help you stay up to date on best practices to keep your family safe.

This workshop is aimed at those wanting to learn how to safely preserve food and those who just need a refresher course. Participants will receive current food preservation publications, view research-based resources on display, sample fresh salsa and learn specific tips for safe food preservation.

If you use a pressure canner, you can bring your lid and dial gauge to be tested at the workshop. (Dial gauges should be checked before each season, but weighted gauges do not need to be tested.)

Registration is required by this Friday, August 31. For more information or to register, contact Prairiewoods at 319-395-6700 or www.Praireiwoods.org.