Yes, these are the best pickles EVER! Not because we made them, but because the recipe is the best one I have ever tried. And of course the best pickles come from home-grown cucumbers. For the first time in my garden, I was able to grow perfect cucumbers! I planted them by the trellis thinking they would climb…and boy, did they ever!
The one problem that I have always had is powdery mildew. I can’t seem to keep it away. I found some organic spray that actually seemed to work fairly well, but if I missed a spraying, the leaves were covered again.
From the vines, I was able to get about 5 quarts of pickles before we went on vacation.
The recipe is as follows:
1qt jar
1 jalapeno
1″ wedge of onion
1 clove garlic
cucumbers (as many as will fit, cram them in there because they shrink)
1 teaspoon dill SEED
1 tablespoon canning salt
BRINE
1/2c sugar
1/2c pickling vinegar
1c water
Mix until sugar dissolves. Microwave JUST until boiling (about 4 minutes). Pour over jar contents to the top and seal. Store in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
***The original recipe from a friend said to put the brine in cold, then place in a hot water bath just until the pickle color changes (10-15 minutes). I have not been successful doing it this way, as my pickles always get too soft.
