​Everything you need to know about Weck Jars!

At Wares of Knutsford, one of our top-selling lines is Weck jars, and we're huge fans of these multi-tasking wonders. So, as we dive into autumn with all of its wonderful kitchen and craft project opportunities, what better time to investigate Weck glass jars and consider their history, usage, features and benefits?

If you've ever wondered why a humble Weck jar always has a clip on each side, then we're here to answer your questions! So let's dive straight in...

Where do Weck Jars come from?

Weck glass jars originate from Germany, and they were created in 1895 for home canning purposes. Their origin explains why the Weck glass jar always combines the key features of tabbed rubber gaskets, metal clamps and a glass lid. These work together to provide a natural seal to canning products and to keep the jar contents fresh. At a time when fridges weren't available, the Weck was an instant hit in Germany and then across Europe. In fact, the brand's name led to the canning term 'einwecken' in Germany, which is translated as 'in Wecks'.

The history of Weck

Following its inception, the Weck Jar rapidly moved into volume production as a jar for home canning. Today's system continues to combine a glass jar, a glass lid, a metal clamp and tabbed rubber gaskets to act as sealing rings and to keep the contents of the jars fresh.

How Weck glass jars differ from Mason jars

Home canners and cooks are faced with a choice between Mason and Weck jars and actually find that there are relatively few differences between the two. The only really obvious difference is that the Mason jar has threaded grooves at the top. Other than that, both jars are highly effective, attractive, time-served and cost-efficient home canning systems, which can also be used for plenty of other kitchen and home projects.

How are Weck jars used for canning

Weck jars need to be sterilised for ten minutes using a variety of available methods. They can then be used for water bath and pressure canning, and the clips can be adjusted to ensure the lid is kept secure. When the jar is sterilised, you simply put your food inside it and then place a new rubber gasket on the rim before securing the lid with the clamps. Use the water bath or pressure canner according to instructions, take the jars out to let them cool and then remove the clamps and store them for your next canning project.

What are the benefits of Weck jars?

1. Weck glass jars are almost completely indestructible. This is because their strong glass material is designed to withstand the heat of canning.

2. Weck jars are extremely cost-effective.

3. They are also environmentally friendly, thanks to their glass material and the fact that their clips can be reused for years.

4. Weck jars can be reused endlessly for canning.

5. They also look great!

A recipe for Weck glass jars

You know that you can enjoy canning with Weck jars, and you can also use them to store jam, easy refrigerator pickles, condiments, and even to serve food. But you can also use them to make your own sourdough starter if you're interested in harnessing the power of fermented foods this season. A 3/4 litre Weck glass canning jar is ideal for making a sourdough starter, and the edges are great for getting spatulas around the starters. They also have no bends or creases that would make it hard to mix the starter. Another benefit is that the glass allows you to look into the starter and check that it's bubbling, and you can dishwash the glass between uses.

You only need a few basic ingredients to make a sourdough starter, and then you need to feed it regularly. Sourdough is something of an art form, and some people feed their starters for years! The effort does result in wonderful bread. Here's a recipe to get you started: https://www.theperfectloaf.com/the-best-jar-for-your-sourdough-starter/.

The Wares Weck jar range

You'll find a wide range of Weck glass jars available at Wares of Knutsford. Our customers love this product line, and we regularly stock up with new sizes and releases for all home uses.

You'll find sizes from mini 80ml Weck clip jars to 1,000ml varieties, depending on your projects and preferences. We also sell complementary Weck glass jar products such as glass carafes, fermentation sets and more.

Whether you're canning, pickling, storing or serving food, Weck jars are a fantastic choice, and you'll love the huge selection, prices and service on offer at Wares, with discounts for bulk buys, fast and affordable delivery and the support of our extremely knowledgeable and helpful customer services team when you need it.