Canned Pineapple. Mrs. Lulu Dann. Recipe

Title: Mrs. Lulu Dann's Homemade Canned Pineapple

Introduction:
Canned pineapple is a delightful and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed all year round. This recipe, passed down from Mrs. Lulu Dann, offers a unique and delicious way to preserve the goodness of pineapple. With its delightful taste and easy preparation, this recipe has become a household favorite. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of canning pineapple, along with some fun facts about this tropical fruit.

Historical Background:
Canning fruits originated in the 18th century as a way to preserve food for long periods without refrigeration. The method quickly gained popularity and became a common practice in households around the world. The invention of self-sealing jars revolutionized the canning industry, making it easier for home cooks to preserve their own fruits and vegetables.

Fun Facts about Pineapple:
1. Pineapples are native to South America, particularly Brazil and Paraguay.
2. The word "pineapple" was coined by European explorers who thought the fruit resembled a pinecone.
3. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Hawaii is often associated with pineapples, as it was once a major pineapple-growing region.

Recipe: Mrs. Lulu Dann's Canned Pineapple

Ingredients:
- Equal measurements of shredded pineapple and sugar
- Water

Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the pineapple. Peel the fruit and remove the core, then shred the pineapple meat into small pieces.

2. In a crock, layer the shredded pineapple and sugar alternately. Start with a layer of shredded pineapple, then cover it with a layer of sugar. Repeat this process until all the pineapple and sugar are used. Allow the mixture to stand overnight.

3. The following morning, drain off the juice from the crock into a large pot.

4. To the three cups of pineapple juice, add one cup of water. Place the pot with the juice-water mixture on the stove and bring it to a boil.

5. Once the mixture begins boiling, add the pineapple pulp into the pot. Let it boil up (not cook) for a few minutes. This process will help infuse the juice with the pineapple flavor.

6. While the pineapple mixture is boiling, prepare your self-sealing jars by washing and sterilizing them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

7. Pour the hot pineapple mixture into the prepared jars, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Make sure to wipe the jar rims clean before sealing them.

8. Seal the jars with the self-sealing lids according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the lids are tightly secured.

9. Place the jars in a canner or a large pot filled with boiling water. Ensure that the water level is at least one inch above the jars. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended time, which is usually around 10-15 minutes.

10. After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a clean, dry towel. You may hear a "pop" sound, indicating that the jars have been properly sealed. Leave the jars undisturbed for 24 hours to complete the sealing process.

11. Once cooled and sealed, store the canned pineapple jars in a cool, dark place. They should be consumed within a year for the best quality.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy exploring different canned fruit recipes, here are some similar dishes you might want to try:

- Canned Peaches: Follow the same process as the canned pineapple recipe, substituting fresh peaches for the pineapple.
- Canned Mango Slices: Peel and slice fresh mangoes, layer them in a crock with sugar, then follow the same canning process.
- Canned Fruit Jam: Instead of shredding the fruit, chop it into small pieces and cook with sugar to create a delicious fruit jam.

Conclusion:
Canning pineapple using Mrs. Lulu Dann’s time-tested recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy this tropical fruit all year round. The process is simple and yields delicious results. Whether used in desserts, salads, or as a sweet topping, canned pineapple adds a burst of tropical flavor to any dish. So, grab your crock, sugar, and pineapple, and start preserving the goodness of this delightful fruit today!