Yes, we can can

Retro home-making and cooking practices seem to be making a comeback. Witness the renewed interested in canning, which the younger set is discovering is a wonderful way to enjoy summer fruits and vegetables all year around. One place to stock up on supplies is  Williams-Sonoma, which  now carries all the essentials of home-canning and preserving. If the pics above are inspiring you to hit the kitchen, take note that WS offers in-store workshops on canning and pickling basics. In Toronto, the next one will be held at their Bloor Street store on August 12, and will teach participants how to make pickling spice and create relishes. They also offer tips online.Williams-Sonoma stores in Vancouver and Calgary are also offering complimentary canning and preserving technique classes.

If you don't have the time, or the inclination, to make your own relishes, check out the new line from President's Choice, which includes zucchini and carmelized onion relishes, and a wonderful sofrito (toss a jar of either into the Five-Grain Blend of spelt, barley, rice, wheat and oats for a super-quick dish). I love this stuff - it's ready to eat in about 10 minutes and works beautifully as a healthy base for a cold salad or a hearty hot alternative to bread or potatoes.