Canned Sour Cherries For Pies Recipe

Recipe for Canned Sour Cherries for Pies

History:
Canning cherries for pies has been a long-standing practice in households, particularly in rural areas. Sour cherries, known for their tart flavor, are a favorite choice for pie enthusiasts. The method of canning cherries ensures that they remain readily available for use throughout the year, even when the fresh fruit is out of season. With a rich history of preserving cherries, this recipe has been passed down through generations. One country housekeeper taught Mary this particular method, and she found the canned sour cherries to be absolutely delightful for pie making.

Fun Fact:
Did you know that sour cherries have been cultivated for centuries? They have been enjoyed for their distinct flavor and used in various culinary applications, including pies, jams, and desserts. The unique tartness of sour cherries brings a tangy twist to traditional cherry recipes.

Ingredients:
- 6 heaping cups of pitted sour cherries
- 2 level cups of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- Cold water (for mixing with cornstarch)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the cherries. Pit the cherries and place them in a bowl. Cover them with cold water and let them stand overnight. This step helps to soften the cherries and remove any excess bitterness.

2. The next morning, drain the cherries well, ensuring that all the water is removed.

3. In a stewpan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, and water. Stir the mixture to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Place the stewpan on the stovetop over medium heat. Cook the cherries mixture for a short time until it starts to simmer gently.

5. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the cherry sauce.

6. Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering cherries, stirring continuously to incorporate it well. Keep stirring until the mixture comes to a boil. The cornstarch will thicken the sauce, giving it a smooth and luscious texture.

7. Once the cherry mixture has come to a boil, remove the stewpan from the heat.

8. Prepare the jars for canning. Make sure the jars and lids are sterile and in good condition.

9. Carefully ladle the hot cherry mixture into the pint jars, leaving a small amount of headspace at the top. This recipe should fill approximately five pint jars.

10. Seal the jars tightly with the lids according to the canning instructions. Proper sealing and sterilization are essential for long-term preservation.

11. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. Canned sour cherries can be stored for several months, making them conveniently available whenever you crave a delicious pie.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
Canned sour cherries are a versatile ingredient that can be used not only for pies but in various other culinary creations. Here are a few other recipe ideas that can be made using canned sour cherries:

1. Sour Cherry Jam: Combine the canned sour cherries with sugar and lemon juice, then cook them down to create a delightful jam that can be spread on toast or used as a topping for pancakes and waffles.

2. Sour Cherry Crumble: Use the canned sour cherries as a filling for a delicious crumble. Top the cherries with a buttery oat and almond crumble, then bake until golden and bubbly.

3. Sour Cherry Compote: Simmer the canned sour cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice to create a tangy compote. This versatile sauce can be served over ice cream, yogurt, or even as a topping for cheesecake.

Canning your own sour cherries allows you to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. With this recipe, you can savor the flavors of homemade pies and other delightful dishes using these delicious canned cherries.