Grandma's Spiced Pear Preserves

Examine six (½-pint) jars for any visible damage, such as cracks or rust on the rings. Discard any jars that are not in good condition. Submerge these jars into simmering water for 10 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. On the other hand, wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water to remove any dirt or grime.

At the same time, combine pears with water and lemon juice in a large saucepan. Cover the mixture and bring it to a simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in pectin, then continue boiling until the mixture reaches a full boil. Next, add white sugar and stir constantly until it dissolves, taking about 1 minute.

Now that the mixture is ready, fill hot, sterilized jars with the pear preserves, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top. To remove any air bubbles, use a clean knife or thin spatula to gently scrape the sides and bottom of the jars. Finally, use a moist paper towel to wipe away any residue from the rims.

Place hot, sterilized jars onto a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot. Fill the pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, carefully lower the jars 2 inches apart into the water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch, then continue boiling and processing for 10 minutes.

After removing the jars from the stockpot, let them rest several inches apart for 12 to 24 hours. To check if the seals are secure, press the center of each lid with your finger to ensure it doesn't move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store them in a cool, dark area.