Canning pie filling is a rewarding way to preserve the flavors of your favorite fruits for delicious pies all year round. Canning pie filling without Clear Jel is a common practice among home canners looking for alternatives to this commercial thickener. Clear Jel, a modified cornstarch, is often used in commercial pie fillings for its thickening properties. However, it’s not always easy to find (easiest to purchase here) or may not be preferred due to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Luckily, there are several alternatives and methods to achieve a similar result without Clear Jel.
What is Clear Jel?
Clear Jel is a modified cornstarch that has been specifically formulated for use in canning. It provides a smooth, consistent texture to pie fillings and other canned goods without breaking down during the canning process. However, Clear Jel can be difficult to find in stores and may not be suitable for those with corn allergies or who prefer to avoid corn-based products.
There are two types of Clear Jel: traditional and instant. The traditional (cook-type) Clear Jel is what is used in Pie Filling Canning Recipes. The instant Clear Jel cannot be substituted in the preparation of the canning recipes. The instant form thickens without heating and is designed to be used in products that will not be cooked.
Purchasing Clear Jel
Clear Jel is not available in most grocery stores. It can be purchased through local health food stores, in specialty food shops, or online.
Safety Considerations in Canning
When canning pie filling without Clear Jel, it’s essential to follow safe canning practices to prevent spoilage and ensure the safety of your canned goods. This includes using proper equipment, following tested recipes, and processing your jars in a boiling water bath or pressure canner for the recommended time.
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Canning Pie Filling Without Clear Gel
The answer to avoiding the addition of clear gel is simply to omit it from the recipe when canning. When you go to make your pie you then add your thickening agent (cornstarch or tapioca) to the pie filling before filling your pie.
Safety Alert
Pie Fillings thickened with starches other than Clear Jel, such as flour, cornstarch, or tapioca are not safe for canning. The heat penetration of these products is poor, and this may interfere with the destruction of bacteria during the canning process. You must thicken your pie filling after opening a properly canned pie filling without Clear Jel.
How to Thicken Pie Filling
Before using fruit pie filling straight from the pantry, You’ll want to thicken it. Drain 1/3 cup liquid from 1 jar of Homemade Pie Filling into a medium saucepan. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour into the liquid until smooth. Add the remaining contents of the jar to the pot, and stir gently to blend. Bring to a boil over medium-high. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute until thickened.
Canning pie filling without Clear Jel is a safe and achievable process with the right knowledge and equipment. By following proper canning procedures and using alternative thickeners after you have canned your fruit filling, you can enjoy delicious homemade pie fillings year-round. Experiment with different fruits and tested recipes to find your favorite combinations, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
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FAQs
- Can I use tapioca or flour as a thickener for pie filling?
- Tapioca and flour can be used as thickeners after opening your canned fruit pie filling, but they may not give the same consistency as Clear Jel. Follow a tested recipe for the best results.
- How long can I store canned pie filling without Clear Jel?
- Canned pie filling can be stored for many years in a cool, dark place. Check jars for signs of spoilage before using.
- Can I freeze pie filling instead of canning it?
- Yes, you can freeze pie filling as an alternative to canning. Use freezer-safe containers and thaw before using.
- Are there any safety concerns with canning pie filling without Clear Jel?
- As long as you follow proper canning procedures and use tested recipes, there should be no safety concerns.
Pie Filling Recipes
Here are some pie-filling recipes that can be made without Clear Jel