Top-Rated Pressure Canner for Canning Soups and Stews

Canning soups and stews is a fantastic way to preserve homemade meals, ensuring that you can enjoy them at a later date without compromising flavor or nutrition. Pressure canning is the only safe method for preserving low-acid foods such as meats, vegetables, and broths, which are commonly used in soups and stews. Using the right pressure canner will not only help you preserve these dishes but also ensure that your efforts result in safely sealed jars that can last for months or even years.

In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into why pressure canning is essential for soups and stews, how to select the best pressure canner for this purpose, and review some of the top-rated models available on the market.

Why Pressure Canning is Essential for Soups and Stews

Soups and stews typically contain a mix of vegetables, meats, beans, and broths, all of which are low-acid foods. Unlike high-acid foods like fruits, jams, and pickles, low-acid foods require higher temperatures to kill harmful bacteria, such as Clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism. These temperatures can only be achieved through pressure canning, which uses steam under pressure to increase the temperature of the food inside the jars.

Benefits of Pressure Canning Soups and Stews

1. Food Safety: Pressure canning ensures that the high temperatures needed to destroy harmful bacteria are reached, making the food safe for long-term storage.
2. Convenience: Canning your soups and stews allows you to prepare meals in advance, saving time on busy days when you want a quick, nutritious meal.
3. Long-Term Storage: Properly canned soups and stews can be stored in your pantry for a year or longer without the need for refrigeration or freezing, which helps reduce waste and preserve seasonal ingredients.
4. Cost-Effective: By purchasing ingredients in bulk when they are in season or on sale, you can can large batches of soups and stews, saving money in the long run.

How to Choose the Best Pressure Canner for Canning Soups and Stews

When choosing a pressure canner for canning soups and stews, several factors need to be considered. The right canner will ensure safe preservation and efficient canning of your meals.

1. Capacity

The size of your pressure canner will determine how much soup or stew you can process at one time. A larger canner is beneficial for those who frequently make large batches, while a smaller canner works well for smaller households or for those who only preserve a few jars at a time.

• 12 to 16 quarts: Ideal for small batches, typically 4 to 6 jars.
• 23 quarts: The most common size for home canning, which holds 7 quart-sized jars and is perfect for most families.
• 32 quarts or larger: Best for those who can in bulk or have large families.

2. Material

Most pressure canners are made from either aluminum or stainless steel. While both materials are effective, each has its benefits:

• Aluminum: Lighter and more affordable but may be less durable over time.
• Stainless Steel: Heavier, more durable, and resistant to corrosion, but usually more expensive.

3. Pressure Control

Pressure control is crucial for safely canning soups and stews. A dial gauge allows for precise monitoring of the pressure, while a weighted gauge automatically maintains pressure without the need for constant monitoring. For beginners, a weighted gauge may be more user-friendly, while experienced canners may prefer the control provided by a dial gauge.

4. Safety Features

Look for a pressure canner with multiple safety features, such as a pressure release valve, locking lid, and safety vents. These features help prevent accidents and ensure that the pressure canner operates safely during the entire process.

5. Ease of Use and Cleaning

Ease of use and cleaning are essential for making the canning process as smooth as possible. Choose a canner that has an easy-to-remove lid, a clear pressure gauge or regulator, and smooth, non-stick surfaces that are simple to wipe down after each use.

Top-Rated Pressure Canners for Canning Soups and Stews

Now that we understand the important factors to consider when choosing a pressure canner, let's take a look at some of the top-rated models for canning soups and stews. These pressure canners are praised for their durability, ease of use, and effectiveness.

1. All American 921 21.5-Quart Pressure Canner

Best for: Durability and High-Volume Canning

The All American 921 is a well-regarded, high-capacity pressure canner that excels in durability and performance. Made from cast aluminum, this canner is built to last and is perfect for larger batches of soups and stews. It features a dial gauge for precise pressure control and can hold up to 7 quart jars at a time.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 21.5 quarts (7 quart jars)
• Material: Cast aluminum
• Pressure Control: Dial gauge for accurate pressure monitoring
• Pros: Durable, minimal maintenance, great for large batches
• Cons: Heavy, relatively expensive

2. Presto 23-Quart Pressure Canner

Best for: Affordability and Ease of Use

The Presto 23-Quart is an affordable and easy-to-use pressure canner, ideal for beginners. It features a weighted gauge, which automatically maintains consistent pressure during the canning process. This canner is perfect for those looking to preserve soups, stews, and other low-acid foods without the hassle of constant monitoring.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 23 quarts (7 quart jars)
• Material: Aluminum
• Pressure Control: Weighted gauge for simple, consistent operation
• Pros: Affordable, user-friendly, great for beginners
• Cons: May wear out with frequent use, lightweight construction

3. Mirro 23-Quart Pressure Cooker Canner

Best for: Versatility and Dual Function

The Mirro 23-Quart pressure canner serves a dual purpose, allowing you to both can and pressure cook in the same unit. This versatility makes it ideal for home cooks who want a multi-functional kitchen tool. It comes with a dial gauge for precise pressure control, and its aluminum construction ensures a durable, long-lasting product.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 23 quarts (7 quart jars)
• Material: Aluminum
• Pressure Control: Dial gauge for accuracy
• Pros: Dual functionality, easy to use, durable
• Cons: Heavy, aluminum may not be as long-lasting as stainless steel

4. T-fal P45009 12-Quart Pressure Cooker Canner

Best for: Small Batches and Compact Storage

The T-fal P45009 12-Quart is a smaller, more affordable canner that's perfect for those who don't need to process large quantities of food at once. It holds up to 4 quart jars, making it ideal for small households or individuals who only preserve small batches of soups and stews.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 12 quarts (4 quart jars)
• Material: Stainless steel
• Pressure Control: Dial gauge for accuracy
• Pros: Compact, affordable, easy to store
• Cons: Smaller capacity, not ideal for larger batches

5. Bayou Classic 32-Quart Aluminum Pressure Cooker Canner

Best for: Large Batch Canning

The Bayou Classic 32-Quart pressure canner is perfect for large households or those who regularly can big batches of soups and stews. It can hold up to 14 quart jars and features a durable aluminum construction. This canner comes with a pressure regulator to ensure consistent pressure during the canning process.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 32 quarts (14 quart jars)
• Material: Aluminum
• Pressure Control: Regulator for consistent pressure
• Pros: Large capacity, durable, great for bulk canning
• Cons: Heavy, bulky, expensive

Conclusion

When it comes to canning soups and stews, having the right pressure canner is essential for ensuring both safety and quality. Whether you're looking for an affordable model like the Presto 23-Quart or a high-capacity canner like the All American 921, the right pressure canner will help you preserve your homemade meals and make your food storage efficient and effective. Consider your batch sizes, material preferences, and budget when choosing the best pressure canner for your needs. With the right equipment, you can enjoy homemade soups and stews all year long.