How to Can Oranges

Preparation Time:

Skill Level: Moderate

• Prep Time: 30-40 minutes
• Processing Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

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Ingredients

• Fresh oranges (approximately 8–10 medium oranges for 4 pint jars)
• 4–5 cups water
• 2 cups sugar (adjustable for taste, or substitute with honey)

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Equipment Needed

• Canning jars (pint-sized or quart-sized) with lids and bands
• Large pot or water bath canner
• Jar lifter and funnel
• Knife and cutting board

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water.
2. Peel the oranges and remove the white pith as much as possible to avoid bitterness.
3. Separate the orange segments and remove seeds, if any.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

1. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar to make a light syrup.
   • Use a ratio of 2 cups sugar to 4-5 cups water, or adjust to your desired sweetness.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat and keep the syrup warm.

Step 3: Pack the Jars

1. Sterilize your canning jars by boiling them for 10 minutes, then let them air dry.
2. Using a jar funnel, pack the orange segments into the jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
3. Pour the warm syrup over the oranges until they are completely covered, maintaining the ½ inch of headspace.

Step 4: Remove Air Bubbles

1. Slide a clean knife or a bubble remover tool along the inside edges of the jar to release trapped air bubbles.
2. Adjust the syrup level if necessary to maintain proper headspace.

Step 5: Seal the Jars

1. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal.
2. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.

Step 6: Process the Jars

1. Place the jars in a water bath canner, ensuring they are fully submerged and covered with at least 1 inch of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars:
   • Pint jars: 10 minutes
   • Quart jars: 15 minutes
3. Once processed, carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool.

Step 7: Check Seals

1. After the jars have cooled for 12-24 hours, check the seals by pressing down on the lids. If they do not pop back, the jars are sealed properly.
2. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.

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Tips for Canning Oranges

• Use navel oranges or mandarins for the best flavor and ease of peeling.
• If you prefer, you can add a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean to each jar for added flavor.
• For a sugar-free version, use plain water or a fruit juice like white grape juice instead of syrup.

Enjoy your canned oranges as a snack, in desserts, or as a topping for salads and yogurts! 🍊