Canning with stockpot
Debbie
08/01/10 		I have to use a stockpot to can with because I have a ceramic cooktop. I see water canners have a rack that goes on the bottom. I did not have one of these with my stockpot and just set the jars in the stockpot when I made my jellies and pickles. Do I need a rack at the bottom? Where would I find one to fit a stockpot. I haven't seen any.
ellen
08/01/10 		You absolutely need a rack. Nice heavy round stainless steel ones are sold as cake racks where specialty cake decorating stuff is sold.

Check your manual, some tops say not to can on them.

Debbie
08/01/10 		I can can on mine but can't use a ridged water canning pot. That is why I've had to use my stockpot because I can't find a water canner that is flat on the bottom. I will try to find one of those racks. Why do you need one? Are the jellies and pickles I've already canned without one processed ok.
Debbie
08/02/10 		Crap, I just got a cake rack and it didn't fit. Is there something else that would work?
ellen
08/03/10 		The round racks come in different sizes...

The issues are 1) no even heat circulation around the bottom of the jars 2) cracking the bottom of the jars. You know how to check for spoilage when you open, and that home canned foods should be cooked 15 minutes before serving?