Hello!

A quick note about market tomorrow – Mark and Gina won’t be setting up but are looking forward to seeing you soon!

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Gina and I were fortunate enough to attend a Quick Pickle workshop at Crabtree Farms a few weeks ago. It was led by Caroline Thompson from The Farmer’s Daughter and was co-sponsored by Harvested Here (we are one of their customers!). We had a great time, sampling lots of quick pickles and then making a batch of our own to take home. I made quick pickled whole okra with fresh mint, cumin, hot peppers and garlic and loved it! You get very little “slime” with this technique and it is really quick to put together. They are great for snacking and really satisfy the need for something crunchy and tangy.

It just so happens that we will have okra in our upcoming CSA session! Have you signed up yet? Well get to it – the “Fall into Greens” session starts in just a few weeks!

The recipe below is from the workshop handout. Thanks again to Caroline for providing us with this great information!

Quick Pickled Okra
1 packed pint jar

Recipe notes: 1) you can use almost any vinegar but I prefer white, apple cider or rice vinegar; 2) I have only used tap water but Caroline mentioned that filtered water is ideal; 3) I typically use raw granulated sugar but you can use honey, sorghum or maple syrup too; 4) pickling salt is recommended because it does not contain anit-caking agents that can discolor your pickles; 5) the spicing is where you get to have a lot of fun! I made another version at home with coriander, cumin, black peppercorns, garlic, ginger and hot peppers. Play around and be creative!

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup vinegar
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1-1/2 teaspoons pickling salt
• Up to a 1 tablespoon of whole spices, herbs or flavorings
• Washed and sliced (if desired) vegetables and fruits

Directions:

• Heat vinegar, water, sugar and salt in a small saucepot until sugar and salt have dissolved. Meanwhile, pack a clean pint jar with your spices and flavorings, and then pack tightly with the vegetables or fruit. Pour hot brine over produce into the jar. Using a skewer or straw, unleash any large air bubbles you may see. Allow to cool before putting in the fridge. Store in the fridge for up to 2 months, if they last that long!