Preserving with a Purpose

Book Review: Preserving with a Purpose by Sarah Thrush

Rating: 4 Stars

As someone who has dabbled in canning but never really found my groove, I was excited to dive into Preserving with a Purpose: Next-Generation Canning Recipes and Kitchen Wisdom by Sarah Thrush. This book is a refreshing take on canning that feels both modern and accessible, and I was thrilled to find that it contains so much more than just traditional recipes.

From the get-go, The author emphasizes that this isn't your average canning book filled with dusty old recipes. Instead, it's a vibrant guide that delivers 125 delightful recipes ranging from the classic tomato and green bean preserves to innovative dishes like DIY Teriyaki Sauce and Carrot Cake Jam. The best part? Each recipe is designed to fit into today's diverse culinary landscape, making use of global flavors that often get overlooked in traditional preserving literature.

One of the aspects I love about this book is how it seamlessly integrates canning into meal planning. As someone who is always looking for ways to streamline my cooking, I appreciated the practical advice on how to incorporate these delicious preserved goods into my daily meals. The recipes are straightforward and easy to follow, complete with serving sizes, ingredient lists, and clear canning instructions. Plus, many come with stunning photographs that not only illustrate the finished product but also provide ideas for modifications—perfect for someone who likes to get creative in the kitchen!

Thrush doesn't shy away from the challenges of canning either. She lays out the benefits, steps, science, and even potential obstacles of the canning process. This comprehensive approach is incredibly beneficial for newbies like me who may feel daunted by the thought of preserving food. It gives you the confidence to tackle canning without fear.

A standout in Preserving with a Purpose is Thrush's focus on reducing waste. Many recipes encourage using ingredients that are often discarded, which aligns perfectly with the current push toward sustainable living. For instance, her approach to creating Spiced Apple Butter from leftover apple scraps feels not only resourceful but also deeply satisfying.

In short, if you're looking to step up your canning game—whether you're starting from scratch or already have a few jars under your belt—Sarah Thrush's Preserving with a Purpose is a must-have on your kitchen shelf. It's informative, visually stunning, and packed with useful wisdom that makes you want to roll up your sleeves and get started. This book has certainly earned its four stars in my collection!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️