Weekend Project- Canning

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With many fruits and vegetable at their peak ripeness, Summer is the perfect time to start canning.  If you're new to canning the process may seem intimidating.  But with a bit of attention to detail and the right supplies you can be stocking your pantry in no time.

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Canning is best with fruits and vegetables that are at their optimum ripeness.  Try shopping at a local farmer's market or even picking fruit from your own backyard.  Many recipes will require that you peel the skin off before canning.

The basic supplies remain the same regardless of what you are canning.  All of these supplies can be found in our store or online to be delivered to our store at truevalue.com.

Once you have prepared your recipe, simply follow the instructions on your pressure cooker to properly heat and pressurize the cans so that no bacteria can enter.  No bacteria means no spoilage, so after your cans have cooled and you have heard the "ping" that signals the lids have been properly pressurized, cans can be stored on shelves without refrigeration.  Canned fruits and preserves make great gifts!

Have you ever tried canning? What was your experience with it?

**Special Offer: Now through August 30th, 2013 receive 10% off in-store canning supplies with a printout of this page**

Holy Guacamole!

For a quick and easy Summer appetizer, try this spicy guacamole.  It's one of Craig's staples!

Craig's Spicy Summertime Guac

You'll Need:

• 5 Avocados
• 2 Jalapenos
• 1/2 bunch of cilantro
• 2 small tomatoes
• Garlic Salt, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• "A whole crapload of pepper"

Finely dice the jalapenos (remove seeds if you want it less spicy), cilantro, and tomatoes.  Mash all ingredients together in a large bowl.  Serve with tortilla chips.  Serves 8-10.

Memorial Day Must-Haves

Memorial Day is right around the corner and it promises to usher in the beginning of Summer. Here are some of our must-have picks for the upcoming three day weekend as well as the warm days (and nights!) to follow.

1. Star Spangled Banner: It's definitely a holiday to let Ole' Glory fly
2. Comfy Outdoor Furniture: Perfect for camping or simply hanging out on the porch with a brewski
3. Fire Pit: Add a cozy backyard ambiance without the expense of a permanent fire pit.
4. Citronella Candles: With Summer comes the inevitable onslaught of mosquitoes.  Stave them off with a few of these stylish staples.
5. Charcoal Grill: Needs no explanation.  The best part is that they come in all shapes and sizes so the size of your apartment need not interfere with your carnal instinct to grill.
6. Cooler: For keeping aforementioned brewskis cold.
7. Drinkware: Sure, you could just drink out of a Solo cup.  But why not give your Memorial Day BBQ a bit more class with these Redneck Wine Glasses?
8. Beverage Dispenser: Ideal for holding a whole lot of water.... or Jungle Juice.  The choice is yours.


The best part?  Most of these items are on sale now!  We will be closed on Memorial Day so stop by this week to stock up!