Can you water bath pasta sauce without lemon juice?

* Lemon juice is typically added to prevent browning and maintain color.

* However, it's not essential for the water bath process itself.

Here's how to water bath pasta sauce without lemon juice:

1. Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will retain their vibrant color even without lemon juice.

2. Control heat: A gentle simmer will help prevent browning.

3. Adjust your recipe: If you're concerned about browning, consider adding a small amount of:

* Tomato paste: Adds a deeper color and helps prevent browning.

* White wine: Can help brighten the color and add a touch of acidity.

* Vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.

4. Quick processing time: If you're worried about color change, try processing the sauce for a shorter time.

Important: Even without lemon juice, make sure your jars are properly prepped and sealed to ensure safe canning.