Sterilize glass jars in minutes with these 3 very quick methods

by Mark Bennett

September 12, 2023

Sterilize glass jars in minutes with these 3 very quick methods
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We all know the risks of contamination that exist when we make jams, sauces and preserves at home. These foodstuffs are usually stored in glass jars, which are prone to attracting harmful mold, germs and bacteria.

That said, the correct sterilization of glass jars is sufficient to avoid this risk. There are many ways to do this and today we show you 3 very quick methods with which you can rely on.

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Sterilize glass jars: starting preparations

Sterilize glass jars: starting preparations

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Before proceeding with the sterilization process, we must first select the most suitable containers for our foodstuffs and preserves.

The jars we use must be of a size such that they are almost full when we insert the foodstuffs in question.

Another important thing to pay attention to is the closure of the jar, which must be hermetic (air-tight): in this case, the best containers are those with rubber gaskets or seals, which guarantee a perfect seal. Recycled jars must be in pristine condition and the lids must be free of rust.

Throw away any jars that do not meet these standards.

We can now move on to the sterilization process, which can be done in different ways. Today we will describe 3 very simple and quick methods you can use:

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Sterilizing glass jars: 3 very quick methods

Sterilizing glass jars: 3 very quick methods

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1. In a pot: the first method we suggest is boiling the jars in a pot. This method is certainly the most common, and requires little time and effort. You will need to put the jars into a pot large enough to contain them all and fill it up completely with cold water; turn on the heat and bring to the boil, then leave boiling for 10 minutes. Remove the jars with tongs and place them to cool on the table or kitchen counter. Then dry with a clean cloth.
2. In the oven: the second method is even quicker and simpler than the previous one and uses the high temperatures of the oven. Wash the containers carefully and place them on the baking tray. Preheat the oven to 120 degrees C, insert the jars and leave for 30 minutes; after this time you can open the oven and let it cool down completely. The jars are now ready for use.
3. Microwave oven: another very quick way to sterilize glass jars, but it cannot also be used for lids, which will need to be sterilized in a different way. Place the jars in the microwave with two inches of water inside each of them and microwave for 2 minutes on high; then remove the jars and leave them to dry upside down on a clean cloth.

Which method will you choose for your preserves?

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