Why you should consider raising goats on your small farm

Raising goats can be a rewarding and beneficial endeavor. Here are just a few of the many benefits of keeping goats on your farm:

  1. Milk Production: Goats are known for their high milk production and the quality of their milk. Goat milk is known to be easier to digest than cow’s milk and is also a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
  2. Meat Production: Some breeds of goats, such as Spanish and Boer, are raised for their meat. Goat meat is lean and flavorful, and can be a great alternative to traditional meats for small farms.
  3. Fiber Production: Goats also produce fibers that can be used for clothing, blankets, and other textiles. Some breeds, such as Angora and Cashmere, are known for their high-quality fibers.
  4. Brush Control: Goats are known to be excellent at controlling weeds and brush, which can be beneficial for small farms that need to keep their property clear.
  5. Easy to Handle: Goats are known to be easy to handle and care for, making them a great choice for small farmers with limited resources.
  6. Companionship: Goats can be great companions for farmers, they are known to have personalities and be affectionate with their owners.
  7. Sustainable: Goats are known to be a sustainable animal to raise, they have a low impact on the environment, they can adapt to different terrains and climates and can thrive on roughage and weeds.

When it comes time to choose the goats you want on your farm, here are a few popular choices and their benefits:

  1. Alpine: Alpines are a hardy and adaptable breed, making them a great choice for small farms. They are known for their high milk production and are also used for meat. They are also known for their friendly personalities, which can make them great companions for farmers.
  2. Nubian: Nubians are known for their high milk production and unique, long ears. They also have a friendly and outgoing personality, which makes them a good choice for small farms.
  3. LaMancha: LaManchas are known for their high milk production and their gentle dispositions. They are also known for their lack of external ears, which can make them less susceptible to ear infections.
  4. Oberhasli: Oberhaslis are a medium-sized breed known for their milk production and their calm personalities. They are also known for their beautiful coloring, with a distinctive bay color.
  5. Pygmy: Pygmies are a small breed of goats that are known for their friendly personalities and their ability to be easily handled. They are also known for their milk production and are often kept as pets or companion animals.

Each of these breeds have different characteristics, and choosing the right breed for your farm will depend on your specific needs and goals.

By raising goats on a small farm, you can enjoy fresh milk, meat, and fibers, while also benefitting from their ability to control weeds and brush. Additionally, goats are easy to care for and can make great companions for farmers. Keeping goats on a small farm can also be a sustainable way of producing food, fibers and controlling weeds.

Chicken spotlight: Leghorn

The Leghorn is a popular and prolific breed of chicken known for its egg production, hardiness, and small size.

One of the most notable features of the Leghorn is its white plumage, which makes it easy to spot any dirt or debris that might be on its feathers. These birds are small to medium in size, with males weighing around 6-7 pounds and females weighing around 5-6 pounds. They have a single red comb and a small wattle on their neck.

In terms of egg production, Leghorns are some of the most prolific laying hens in the chicken world. They can lay up to 280 white or brown eggs per year, making them a reliable source of income for small farms and homesteads. Leghorns are also a good choice for anyone looking to raise chickens for their eggs, as they are more inclined to lay eggs rather than go broody.

One thing to consider when raising Leghorns is that they can be prone to becoming overweight if not given enough space to move around and forage. They also need plenty of access to clean water and a well-balanced diet to stay healthy.

Overall, the Leghorn is a popular and reliable breed of chicken that is well-suited to small farms and homesteads. With their high egg production and small size, they are a great choice for anyone looking to raise chickens for their eggs. So, if you are a small farmer or homesteader looking for a reliable source of eggs, the Leghorn might be the perfect breed for you.

A Quick and Simple Guide to Smoking Delicious Foods

Smoking foods is a traditional method of preservation that has been used for centuries. Not only does it add a unique and delicious flavor to meats and nuts, but it also has many health benefits.

One of the main benefits of smoking foods is that it helps to preserve them for longer periods of time. The smoke from the burning wood creates a barrier around the food, which slows down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. This makes it an excellent way to preserve meats and fish, as well as nuts and seeds.

Another benefit of smoking foods is that it can add a lot of flavor to the food. The smoke from the wood imparts a smoky flavor that can be quite delicious. This is why smoking is often used to enhance the flavor of meats, fish, and nuts.

When it comes to the process of smoking foods, there are a few different methods that can be used. One of the most popular methods is to use a traditional smoker. This is a large metal box that has a firebox on one end and a chimney on the other. The food is placed in the smoker, and the fire is lit in the firebox. The smoke from the fire travels through the smoker and flavors the food.

Another method is called cold smoking, which can be done by using a smoke gun. This method is used to smoke food at lower temperatures, which helps to preserve the food while still adding flavor. This method is often used to smoke nuts, cheese, and fish.

Lastly, it is important to use the right type of wood for smoking. Different woods have different flavors, so it’s important to choose the right wood for the food that you’re smoking. For example, hickory and mesquite are great for smoking meats, while alder and apple are good for smoking fish and nuts.

I like to use a Traeger grill for smoking.

A Traeger grill is a type of wood pellet grill that uses wood pellets as fuel. These pellets are made from compressed sawdust and wood shavings, and they come in a variety of different flavors. This allows you to easily switch between different types of wood and achieve different flavors with your food.

One of the most significant benefits of using a Traeger grill is the convenience it offers. Unlike traditional smoking methods, a Traeger grill is fully automated, which means you don’t have to spend hours tending to a fire or adjusting the temperature. With a Traeger grill, you simply load the wood pellets, set the temperature, and let the grill do the rest.

Another benefit of using a Traeger grill is that it allows you to smoke food at lower temperatures–cold smoking. With a Traeger grill, you can easily achieve low-temperature smoking and enjoy delicious results.

In addition to smoking, Traeger grills can also be used for grilling, baking, roasting, and even braising. This makes it a versatile and convenient option for outdoor cooking and entertaining.

Overall, smoking food with a Traeger grill is an excellent way to achieve delicious and healthy results with minimal effort. With its automation, versatility and convenience, it’s a great option for anyone looking to add some delicious smoky flavor to their meals.

In conclusion, smoking foods is an excellent way to preserve and flavor foods like meats, nuts, and fish. By using traditional smoking methods or using modern smoke guns, you can achieve delicious and healthy results. Plus, it adds a unique and delicious flavor to your meats, nuts, and fish.

Here are three recipes you might want to try next time you smoke:

Smoked Salmon

Smoked salmon is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this flavorful fish.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 lbs of salmon fillet, skin removed
  • 2 tbsp of olive oil
  • 2 tsp of salt
  • 1 tsp of black pepper
  • 2 tbsp of brown sugar
  • 1 cup of wood chips (such as alder or apple)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your smoker grill to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
  4. Rub the salmon fillets with the oil and spice mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
  5. Place the salmon on the grill grates and add the wood chips to the smoker box or on top of the hot coals if your smoker has no smoker box.
  6. Smoke the salmon for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Once the salmon has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
  8. Serve the smoked salmon with your favorite sides, such as a salad, vegetables, or rice.

You can also use other seasonings of your choice or add a marinade to the fish before you smoke it, to add more flavor. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or even for entertaining guests.

Smoked Vegetables

Smoking vegetables is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy them, and using a smoker grill with wood chips makes the process easy and delicious. Here’s a recipe for smoking vegetables on a smoker grill:

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 lbs of vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and onions)
  • 2 tbsp of olive oil
  • 2 tsp of salt
  • 1 tsp of black pepper
  • 1 cup of wood chips (such as hickory or mesquite)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your smoker grill to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. Cut the vegetables into bite-size pieces and place them in a large bowl.
  4. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and toss the vegetables until they are fully coated.
  5. Place the vegetables on the grill grates and add the wood chips to the smoker box or on top of the hot coals if your smoker has no smoker box.
  6. Smoke the vegetables for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender and have a nice smoky flavor.
  7. Once the vegetables have reached the desired doneness, remove them from the grill and let them cool.
  8. Serve the smoked vegetables as a side dish or add them to sandwiches, salads, or pizzas.

This recipe is perfect for a party or to have a side dish on hand. The vegetables will be nicely smoked with a smoky flavor that will make them irresistible. You can also use other vegetables like tomatoes, mushrooms, or corn and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Smoked Almonds

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of raw almonds
  • 2 tbsp of honey
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 1 tsp of smoked paprika
  • 1 cup of wood chips (such as alder or hickory)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your smoker grill to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, salt, and smoked paprika.
  4. Add the almonds to the bowl and stir until they are fully coated with the honey mixture.
  5. Place the almonds on a baking sheet and place them on the grill grates.
  6. Add the wood chips to the smoker box or on top of the hot coals if your smoker has no smoker box.
  7. Smoke the almonds for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
  8. Once the almonds have reached the desired color and flavor, remove them from the grill and let them cool.
  9. Serve the smoked honeyed almonds as a snack or as a topping for salads, yogurt, or ice cream.

This recipe is perfect for a party or to have a snack on hand. The almonds will be nicely smoked with a sweet and savory flavor that will make them irresistible. You can also use other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Chicken spotlight: Silver-laced Wyandotte

The Silver-laced Wyandotte is a popular and attractive breed of chicken known for its egg production, hardiness, and striking appearance.

One of the most notable features of the Silver-laced Wyandotte is its beautiful silver-laced plumage. These birds have white feathers with a black edge, giving them a distinctive and elegant look. They have a rose comb and a single red wattles on their neck, and they are medium to large in size, with males weighing around 8-9 pounds and females weighing around 6-7 pounds.

In terms of egg production, Silver-laced Wyandottes are known to be reliable layers, producing up to 250 brown eggs per year. They are also a dual-purpose breed, meaning that they can be raised for both their eggs and their meat. This makes them a great choice for small farmers looking to maximize their return on investment.

One thing to consider when raising Silver-laced Wyandottes is that they can be prone to becoming overweight if not given enough space to move around and forage. They also need plenty of access to clean water and a well-balanced diet to stay healthy.

Overall, the Silver-laced Wyandotte is a beautiful and reliable breed of chicken that is well-suited to small farms and homesteads. With their consistent egg production and versatility as a dual-purpose bird, they are a great choice for anyone looking to raise chickens for their eggs or meat. So, if you are a small farmer or homesteader looking for a striking and reliable source of eggs and meat, the Silver-laced Wyandotte might be the perfect breed for you.

French Toast – A Simple and Delicious Egg Recipe

One of our favorite recipes to use eggs in is French toast, a simple yet delicious breakfast or brunch dish that can be dressed up in a variety of ways.

French toast is made by dipping bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, and then frying it in butter until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. It is typically served with toppings such as syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or nutella.

To make French toast at home, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 4 slices bread
  • 2 tablespoons butter

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, sugar, and spices. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter. When the butter is melted and bubbly, add the bread slices to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the French toast is golden brown and crispy.

Serve the French toast hot, topped with your choice of syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or nut butter. This recipe is a delicious and indulgent breakfast or brunch dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

We hope you enjoy this recipe and that it helps you make the most of the delicious eggs produced by our free-range chickens. Don’t forget to check out our farm store for more recipe ideas and to purchase fresh, locally-produced eggs.

Bon appétit

Egg-cellent Cookies: 3 Delicious Recipes for Your Next Baking Adventure

Cookies are a staple in every home, and adding eggs to the mix can elevate the flavor and texture of your baked goods. Eggs provide moisture and richness to the dough, resulting in a softer and more satisfying cookie. In this article, we’ll be sharing three of our favorite egg-based cookie recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a timeless classic and are always a crowd-pleaser. The addition of eggs in the dough gives them a rich and creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lemon-Poppy Seed Cookies

These cookies are perfect for spring and summer, with a refreshing lemon flavor and a satisfying crunch from the poppy seeds. The eggs in the dough give them a delicate texture that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon zest and juice.
  4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Stir in the poppy seeds.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are perfect for the holiday season, with a warm and spicy gingerbread flavor. The eggs in the dough give them a soft and chewy texture that is irresistible.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup molasses

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix well. Stir in the molasses.
  3. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
  4. Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
  7. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center is set.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!

Chicken spotlight: Brahma

The Brahma is a large and majestic breed of chicken known for its size, gentle disposition, and egg production.

One of the most striking features of the Brahma is its size. These birds are some of the largest in the chicken world, with males weighing around 10-12 pounds and females weighing around 8-10 pounds. They have a distinctive pea comb and feathering on their legs and feet, which helps to keep them warm in cold weather.

Despite their size, Brahma chickens are known for their gentle and docile disposition. They are easy to handle and make great pets, especially for families with children. They are also relatively calm birds, making them a good choice for small farms and homesteads.

In terms of egg production, Brahma chickens are not as prolific as some other breeds like the Leghorn or Rhode Island Red. However, they are still a reliable source of eggs, with the ability to lay up to 150 brown eggs per year.

One thing to consider when raising Brahma chickens is that they can be prone to heat stress in hot weather. They have thick feathering, which can make them less tolerant of high temperatures. Providing plenty of shade and access to clean water is important to keep them healthy and comfortable.

Overall, the Brahma is a large and gentle breed of chicken that is well-suited to small farms and homesteads. While they may not be the most prolific egg producers, they make up for it with their calm disposition and beauty. If you are looking for a pet chicken or a reliable source of eggs and meat, the Brahma might be the perfect breed for you.

How to choose the right type of chickens for your flock

Raising chickens can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially if you take the time to choose the right breed for your coop. There are many different breeds of chickens to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and traits. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular breeds of chickens and how to choose the right one for your farm or backyard coop.

One popular breed of chicken is the Rhode Island Red. This breed is known for its hardiness and excellent egg-laying abilities, with hens capable of producing up to 300 eggs per year. Rhode Island Reds are also known for their friendly and docile temperament, making them a great choice for families with children.

Another popular breed is the Sussex. This breed is known for its striking appearance, with a distinctive black and white pattern on its feathers. Sussex chickens are also known for their good egg-laying abilities and docile temperament. They are a good choice for those looking for a beautiful and friendly addition to their coop.

If you are looking for a chicken with good meat production, the Cornish Cross is a popular choice. This breed is known for its fast growth and large size, making it a good choice for those looking to raise chickens for meat. However, they are not as well-suited for egg production as some other breeds.

If you want a chicken that is good at both egg production and meat production, the Plymouth Rock is a great choice. This breed is known for its hardiness and dual-purpose capabilities, making it a versatile choice for any farm or backyard coop.

When choosing a breed of chicken to raise, it is important to consider your goals and needs. Do you want a chicken that is good at laying eggs? Are you looking for a chicken with good meat production? Do you want a chicken with a friendly temperament? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and choose the right breed for your coop.

In conclusion, there are many different breeds of chickens to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and traits. By considering your goals and needs, you can choose the right breed for your farm or backyard coop and enjoy the rewarding experience of raising chickens.

How to preserve fruits and vegetables with canning, including 3 recipes.

Canning is a great way to preserve fruits and vegetables and extend their shelf life. Not only does it allow you to enjoy the taste of seasonal fruits all year round, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid added sugars and preservatives often found in store-bought canned goods. In this article, we will go over the basic steps of canning and provide three delicious recipes for you to try at home.

The process of canning involves heating and sealing fruit in a jar to kill any bacteria and create a vacuum seal. This prevents new bacteria from entering the jar and spoiling the fruit. There are two main methods of canning: water bath canning and pressure canning. Water bath canning is best for high-acid foods such as fruits, pickles, and jams, while pressure canning is necessary for low-acid foods such as vegetables and meats.

Before you start canning, it’s important to gather all the necessary equipment. You will need canning jars with lids and rings, a large pot for the water bath, a jar lifter, a canning funnel, and a bubble freer (optional). Make sure to sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in a pot of water for at least 10 minutes.

Once you have all your equipment ready, you can start preparing your food. Start by washing and peeling the fruit and veg, if necessary. Cut it into small pieces and place it in a pot with some water. Bring the water to a boil and let the fruit cook until it is soft. If you are making a jam or preserve, you can add sugar and pectin at this point to help thicken the mixture.

Once the food is cooked, use a canning funnel to fill the jars, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any food particles, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.

Next, place the jars in a large pot of boiling water. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch. Boil the jars for the recommended amount of time, depending on the size of the jars and the altitude of your location. A general rule of thumb is to boil pint-sized jars for 10-15 minutes and quart-sized jars for 15-20 minutes.

Once the jars have finished boiling, use a jar lifter to carefully remove them from the water and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you should hear a “pinging” sound as the vacuum seal is formed. Once the jars are cool, press down on the center of the lid to ensure that it is sealed. If the lid springs back, it is not sealed properly and the food should be refrigerated and consumed within a week. Sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Now that you know the basics of canning, here are three delicious recipes to try at home:

Spiced Apple Butter

Ingredients:

  • 4 pounds of peeled, cored, and sliced apples
  • 2 cups of apple cider
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon of cloves

Instructions:

  1. Combine the apples, apple cider, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a large pot.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the apples are soft.
  3. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
  4. Fill the jars with the apple butter, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top.
  5. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any food particles, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.
  6. Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch.
  7. Boil the jars for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the jars.
  8. Carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you should hear a “pinging” sound as the vacuum seal is formed.
  9. Once the jars are cool, press down on the center of the lid to ensure that it is sealed. If the lid springs back, it is not sealed properly and the apple butter should be refrigerated and consumed within a week. Sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy your homemade spiced apple butter on toast, waffles, or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.

Blueberry Jam

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of fresh blueberries
  • 3 cups of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Wash and sterilize your jars and lids.
  2. In a large pot, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Let the mixture boil for about 10 minutes, or until it reaches the desired thickness. You can test the thickness by spooning a small amount onto a plate and seeing if it sets up.
  5. Use a canning funnel to fill the jars with the blueberry jam, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top.
  6. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any food particles, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.
  7. Place the jars in a large pot of boiling water. The water should cover the jars by at least an inch.
  8. Boil the jars for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the jars.
  9. Carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you should hear a “pinging” sound as the vacuum seal is formed.
  10. Once the jars are cool, press down on the center of the lid to ensure that it is sealed. If the lid springs back, it is not sealed properly and the blueberry jam should be refrigerated and consumed within a week. Sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy your homemade blueberry jam on toast, in yogurt or oatmeal, or as a topping for ice cream or cheesecake.

Spicy Tomato Salsa

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups of chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup of chopped onion
  • 1 cup of chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup of chopped jalapeno peppers
  • 1/2 cup of white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Wash and sterilize your jars and lids.
  2. In a large pot, combine the tomatoes, onion, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, cumin, and black pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Use a canning funnel to fill the jars with the salsa, leaving about a half-inch of headspace at the top.
  5. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any food particles, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.
  6. Place the jars in a large pot fitted with a rack and add water until it reaches about 1 inch above the jars.
  7. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let the jars simmer for about 40 minutes. You may need to add more water to the pot to make sure the jars remain covered.
  8. Carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a towel to cool. As the jars cool, you should hear a “pinging” sound as the vacuum seal is formed.
  9. Once the jars are cool, press down on the center of the lid to ensure that it is sealed. If the lid springs back, it is not sealed properly and the salsa should be refrigerated and consumed within a week. Sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy your homemade spicy tomato salsa with chips, on tacos or burritos, or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

A few more recipes

You can never have enough ideas when it comes to preserving food. Here are a few more ideas to try:

  1. Spiced Apple Rings: Thinly slice apples and pack them into canning jars. Make a syrup using water, sugar, and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and pour it over the apples. Process the jars in a water bath to seal them.
  2. Peach Preserves: Peel and slice peaches, and combine them with sugar and lemon juice in a large pot. Cook the mixture until the peaches are soft and the sugar has dissolved. Pack the preserves into canning jars and process in a water bath.
  3. Cherry Jam: Pit and crush cherries, and combine them with sugar in a pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. When the jam reaches the desired consistency, pack it into canning jars and process in a water bath.
  4. Blueberry Syrup: Combine blueberries, sugar, and water in a pot, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the berries are soft and the syrup has thickened. Pack the syrup into canning jars and process in a water bath.
  5. Strawberry Freezer Jam: Hull and crush strawberries, and combine them with sugar and a pectin mixture. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved, then pack it into airtight containers and freeze until ready to use.

Chicken spotlight: Rhode Island Red

The Rhode Island Red is a popular breed of chicken known for its hardiness, egg production, and versatility as a dual-purpose bird.

One of the most striking features of the Rhode Island Red is its beautiful reddish-brown plumage. These birds are medium to large in size, with males weighing around 8-9 pounds and females weighing around 6-7 pounds. They have a distinctive pea comb and a single red wattles on their neck.

One of the main reasons that the Rhode Island Red is so popular with chicken farmers is its excellent egg production. These birds are known to lay large brown eggs consistently throughout the year, making them a reliable source of income for small farms and homesteads. Rhode Island Reds can lay up to 280 eggs per year, which is significantly more than other popular breeds like the Leghorn or Australorp.

In addition to their egg production, Rhode Island Reds are also known for their hardiness and ability to withstand cold temperatures. They are a dual-purpose breed, meaning that they can be raised for both their eggs and their meat. This makes them a great choice for small farmers who want to maximize their return on investment.

One thing to consider when raising Rhode Island Reds is that they can be prone to obesity if not given enough space to move around and forage. They also need plenty of access to clean water and a well-balanced diet to stay healthy.

Overall, the Rhode Island Red is a reliable and hardy breed of chicken that is well-suited to small farms and homesteads. With their consistent egg production and versatility as a dual-purpose bird, they are a great choice for anyone looking to raise chickens for their eggs or meat. So, if you are a small farmer or homesteader looking for a reliable source of eggs and meat, the Rhode Island Red might be the perfect breed for you.