Ball Canning Vegetable Soup Recipe for Easy Home Canning

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when it’s perfectly preserved using the traditional Ball canning method. This Ball canning vegetable soup recipe is not only a wholesome and nutrient-packed meal but also a fantastic way to stock your pantry for those chilly days or busy weeks ahead.

Whether you’re a seasoned home canner or just getting started, this recipe offers a simple, delicious, and safe way to preserve a medley of fresh vegetables in a savory broth. Imagine opening a jar filled with vibrant, tender veggies and rich flavors anytime you want a quick, nourishing meal!

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of making this classic vegetable soup recipe perfect for ball canning, from selecting your ingredients to the canning process itself. Plus, I’ll share tips to customize the soup to your taste and ideas for serving it up in creative ways.

So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get canning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices simmered to perfection and preserved via Ball canning to ensure long shelf life and convenience. Here’s why it stands out:

• Versatility: Customize with your favorite veggies and swap herbs to suit your palate.
• Healthful and wholesome: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from fresh vegetables.
• Convenience: Ready-to-eat soup jars in your pantry save time on busy days.
• Economical: Use seasonal produce and bulk can to save money.
• Perfect for gifting: Beautifully sealed jars make thoughtful homemade gifts.

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced fresh tomatoes (about 6 medium)
• 2 cups diced carrots (about 3 medium)
• 2 cups diced celery (about 3 stalks)
• 2 cups diced green beans
• 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (added to jars for acidity)

Equipment

• Ball canning jars (quart size recommended)
• Ball canning lids and rings
• Large stockpot or soup pot
• Water bath canner or large pot with rack
• Jar lifter
• Ladle
• Funnel for canning
• Clean dish towels
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large spoon for stirring

Instructions

1. Prepare the jars and lids: Wash jars, lids, and rings in hot soapy water. Rinse well and keep jars warm in simmering water until ready to use to avoid breakage during filling.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Dice tomatoes, carrots, celery, green beans, onion, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic.
3. Sauté aromatics (optional): In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped for a lighter soup.
4. Add the vegetables and broth: Add diced carrots, celery, green beans, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Stir in salt, pepper, thyme, basil, and oregano.
5. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
6. Prepare jars for filling: Remove jars from hot water using jar lifter. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each jar to ensure proper acidity for safe canning.
7. Fill the jars: Using a ladle and funnel, fill hot jars with hot soup, leaving 1-inch headspace at the top. Remove air bubbles by gently tapping or running a non-metallic spatula around the inside edges. Wipe jar rims clean with a damp cloth.
8. Seal jars: Place lids on jars, screw on rings until fingertip tight (do not over-tighten).
9. Process jars in water bath canner: Place jars in boiling water bath ensuring jars are covered by at least 1 inch of water. Process quart jars for 75 minutes. Adjust time if you are at high altitude.
10. Cool jars: Carefully remove jars and place on a towel or cooling rack. Let jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals after cooling—the lids should not flex when pressed.
11. Store and enjoy: Label jars with date and contents. Store in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3-4 days.

Tips & Variations

“Using fresh, in-season vegetables will give you the best flavor and nutrition in your canned soup.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add potatoes, corn, peas, or zucchini depending on availability and preference.
• Spicier version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili powder blend. Check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for inspiration.
• Make it heartier: Add cooked beans or lentils before filling jars to boost protein.
• Low sodium: Reduce or omit salt and add it when reheating to control sodium intake.
• Pressure canning option: For soups with low acid vegetables only, pressure canning is recommended. Follow your pressure canner’s guidelines.
• Herb freshness: Use fresh herbs if available, but add them right before serving to maintain flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty vegetable soup is delicious on its own or paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with a crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Top with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.
• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Try our Best Vegan Salad Bowl Recipes for Fresh Healthy Meals.
• Add cooked grains like quinoa or barley to your bowl for extra texture and protein.
• Enjoy as a starter before a more substantial main course, such as our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Preserving homemade vegetable soup through Ball canning is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients year-round. This recipe is flexible and forgiving, making it perfect for both novice and experienced canners.

Not only does it save you time during busy weeks, but it also ensures you have a wholesome meal ready whenever hunger strikes. Plus, canning your own soup is a rewarding activity that connects you with tradition and sustainability.

Whether you’re stocking your pantry, preparing for winter, or looking to share a taste of homemade goodness with family and friends, this Ball canning vegetable soup recipe is a fantastic choice. For more inspiration on vegetarian and vegan cooking, be sure to explore our selection of recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.

Happy canning and happy cooking!

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