How to Pickle

If you learn how to pickle, you'll be able to control the ingredients to make a healthy snack. You can soak all types of vegetables in brine. If you're really feeling daring, you can try to pickle some fruits, eggs and meats. Here's how to pickle food for your health and for fun.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Pickling jars
• 6 cups distilled water
• 3 cups white vinegar
• 1/2 cup pickling salt
• Large pot
• Selection of vegetables
• Crushed red pepper (optional)
• Vegetable oil

1. Use the right jar designated for pickling. Choose a size that meets your needs from 1 oz. to 32 oz. sizes. Make sure you sterilize them before use.

2. Use the brine as a base for all pickling. Mix 6 cups distilled water, 3 cups white vinegar and 1/2 cup pickling salt in a large pot. Boil gently.

3. Choose to pickle your favorite vegetables. For an extra kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper in each jar. Fill each jar with the vegetables you desire and add the boiling brine to the jar. Leave about 1/2 inch at the top and add 1/4 inch vegetable oil, then seal tightly.

4. Label and date each item. This step can also help remind you if you added any extra ingredients such as a spicy addition.

5. Store in a cool, dry place and soak at least 2 weeks before opening to allow the food to absorb the flavors. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips & Warnings

• Great vegetables to pickle include carrots, beans, beets, jicama, cauliflower and, of course, cucumbers.

• Choose the same size food to place in each jar to ensure that the food will soak evenly.

• A jar of homemade pickles makes a great gift.