Q: You mentioned on radio that your mother made pear preserves. Could I get the recipe? My mother died when I was very young, and she made the best pear preserves.

A: I well remember my mother’s steamy kitchen filled with glass jars and soon-to-be-canned produce on every surface in August! She says her recipe came from the local University of Georgia Extension office but she modified it by adding a slice or two of lemon per jar. Since canning rules have changed since my mother’s time, let me refer you to the comprehensive “So Easy To Preserve” book and DVD series available from UGA at www.setp.uga.edu.. The 375-page book contains 185 tested recipes, along with step-by-step instructions and in-depth information for both the new and experienced food preserver.

Follow the directions and you can rest easy at night, listening for the bright “PING” that indicates a jar of delicious pears has sealed properly.