Ginger juice
is traditionally used in Chinese cuisine as a marinade or flavoring in sauces. Its health benefits are frequently extolled and in recent years, some people have taken to drinking it straight in a single shot. However, since ginger juice is so potent, it is typically consumed in small amounts, making it important to preserve unused portions of the ginger juice. Ginger also has natural anti-bacterial properties that facilitate preservation and diminish the likelihood of contamination.
Instructions
Canning Ginger Juice
1. Sanitize a glass jar by washing it in hot, soapy water, rinsing it and drying it. Since damaged glass will not retain an airtight seal, make sure the jar is free of chips and cracks.
2. Pre-treat the lid according to the jar manufacturer's instructions. For example, metal lids are typically equipped with a sealing compound that needs to be heated prior to use.
3. Fill the jar with the ginger juice, leaving a headspace of 1 1/2 inches.
4. Wipe the jar rim and screw threads using a sterile cloth.
5. Screw on the jar lid. Make sure it is firmly secured, but be careful not to fasten it too tightly. An overly tightened lid can prevent the jar from venting properly. Set the jar aside.
6. Fill the water bath canner half full with water. Place the water canner on the stove top and preheat the water to 140 degrees F. Use a pot thermometer to determine when the water has reached the right temperature, and adjust the burner heat accordingly to maintain the water at 140 degrees F.
7. Place the sealed jar of ginger juice on the rack of a water for 30 minutes. Make sure to maintain the water at 140 degrees F, and that the jar is covered in at least 1 inch of water.
8. Once the time has lapsed, carefully remove the jar and allow it to cool completely for about two hours. Avoid placing the jar on a cold surface, which could cause it to crack.
9. Inspect the cooled jar for a tight seal and wipe away any juice residue.
10. Store in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is only necessary once the jar has been opened.
Freezing Ginger Juice
11. Pour the ginger juice into a clean glass jar or freezer container.
12. Seal the vessel, leaving 1 1/2 inches of headspace.
13. Place the jar in the freezer. Since ginger juice does not consist of 100-percent water, expect it to take longer to solidify. The jar can be stored in your freezer for up to six months.
14. Thaw when ready to use. Any juice that remains frozen can be returned to the freezer.
Tags: ginger juice, water degrees, bath canner, Ginger Juice, maintain water, degrees