I love rainy days. Growing up in Southern California, I had few gray, rainy summer days. In the days of my youth, those sunny summer days were spent poolside or on the volleyball court. These days, rain or shine, I'm thinking about gardening and preserving the harvest that doesn't make it to the table. Rainy days make for the best canning days. The house doesn't seem quite so hot and you can feel just a touch of autumn in the air.
The garden has been very productive this year, especially the hot and sweet peppers, and I'm always looking for new inspiration in the kitchen. Three canning books have been especially helpful this year, Canning For a New Generation, Canning and Preserving, and Jam It, Pickle It, Cure It. Each book inspired me to expand beyond tomato sauce, and try new techniques. If you're looking for some canning guidance, check them out from your local library or hit up Amazon or a copy for your bookcase!
Peppers from the garden and the CSA
Peppers roasting under the broiler
Jalapeño slices ready for some pickling liquid
Now if only I could score another rainy weekend this month, I'd love to try this ketchup recipe!