Preservation

Preservation is an important aspect of eating seasonally.  But wait, is it seasonal if preserved???  After reading my answer to that question you can decide for yourself how you want to define seasonal eating.  If it includes preservation, you'll find a whole page on this blog dedicated specifically to doing just that!

Why preserve what's in season?

• Some seasons just aren't as plentiful as others and historically speaking foods were preserved to get through those sparser times without worry.
•  Nowadays many food items are enjoyed year round.  These staples, like jam on breakfast toast or spaghetti sauce for that late night at the office when pasta is the only feasible dinner option, are made and preserved from items when they are in season to be enjoyed out of season.
• Home preservation is more appealing than commercial processing.  The methods and contents can be monitored and controlled (think excessive sodium and non natural preservatives in store bought canned goods).  
• It's fun and fulfilling!  Staring at a pantry full or canned goods or a freezer jammed packed at the end of harvest season is rewarding, especially when you get to eat and enjoy the reward! 

Freezing                                                   Canning


Drying                                                      Root Cellaring