Are you tired of the same old store-bought pickles? Looking to add a little crunch to your life? Well, look no further, because today we're diving into the world of homemade pickles using your very own handmade ceramic fermentation jar! Get ready to pickle like a pro and impress your friends with your briny creations.
What You'll Need:
First things first, gather your ingredients and tools. You'll need fresh cucumbers, dill, garlic, salt, water, and of course, your trusty handmade ceramic fermentation jar. Don't have one? No worries, you can always use a regular glass jar, or check out my jars HERE.
Let the Pickling Begin!
Start by washing your cucumbers and slicing them into spears or rounds, depending on your preference. Pack them into your fermentation jar, and pop the weights on top (the weights prevent your pickles sticking up out of the brine and spoiling). You can try layering them with dill and garlic for that extra flavour kick, (but in the video I have just used the brine for flavour). In a separate container, mix water and salt to create your brine. Pour the brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged. Seal the jar with water and let the magic happen!
Patience is a Pickler's Virtue
Now comes the hard part - waiting. If using a glass fermentation jar, place your jar in a cool, dark place and let the fermentation process work its magic. If using a ceramic jar, you can place it on the kitchen bench, out of the sun - that way you can still keep an eye on them and give a little "burp" to let the gases out, this is done by lifting up a corner of the lid slightly. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your taste preferences. The longer you wait, the more flavorful your pickles will be. It's a test of patience, but trust us, it's worth it!
The Moment of Truth
After patiently waiting (or not so patiently, we won't judge), it's time to taste your homemade pickles. Carefully open the jar and take a whiff of that tangy aroma. Then, grab a pickle, take a bite, and savor the fruits of your labor. Congratulations, you're officially a pickling pro!
So there you have it, a fun guide to making pickles at home using your handmade ceramic fermentation jar. Get creative with your flavors, experiment with different spices, and most importantly, have fun with the process. Who knew pickling could be such a jarring experience? Happy pickling!
Recipe for Fermenting Pickles:
Ingredients:
- 6-8 small cucumbers (about 4-5 inches long)
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and slightly crushed
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds or a few sprigs of fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: a few grape leaves (to keep pickles crisp)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brine: Dissolve the sea salt in water to create a brine. Ensure the salt is fully dissolved.
2. Pack the Jar: Place the garlic, dill, peppercorns, bay leaf, and grape leaves (if using) at the bottom of the fermentation jar. Pack the cucumbers tightly in the jar, leaving about 2-4cm of headspace.
3. Add the Brine: Pour the brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged. Use the fermentation weight to keep your fruit or veggies below the brine level.
4. Seal and Ferment: Close the jar with its lid and pour a small amount of water in the reservoir to activate the airlock. Every 1-3 days, pop the lid open slightly to allow gases to escape (in other words, give it a little burp!). You can place the jar directly on your kitchen bench, just make sure it's not in a sunny spot. Place in a cool ear with a stable temperature, ideally between 18-24°C.
5. Fermentation Time: Allow the pickles to ferment for 5-10 days, tasting them periodically until they reach your desired flavor and texture. The longer they ferment, the more sour they will become.
6. Storage: Once fermented to your liking, transfer the pickles to a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for several months when kept chilled.
Enjoy the rich, tangy taste of homemade fermented pickles, knowing they were crafted with care in a beautifully handmade ceramic jar. Whether you're a seasoned fermenter or a beginner, this jar makes the process simple and enjoyable, adding a touch of artisan elegance to your kitchen.