I've been laughing on and off for several days now, because my awesome friend Chemistry Girl invited me to partake in some quality girl time next Sunday. If you know me at all, you know there's not much I like more than hanging out with the ladies. But this gathering will be a new experience for me...We're going to can pickles.
It's never occurred to me to can pickles (or peaches or peas or tomatoes, for that matter). I have vague memories of my Mom doing this type of project, most of which involve her saying, "Stand back! This water is hot!" and me watching in baffled frustration as she ruined some perfectly good cucumbers. (I've always liked cucumbers.) And since then, I've always been certain that my canned-good needs could be satisfied--inexpensively and with a minimum of effort--by my local grocer.
But I'm living in a new place now, and my new friends can pickles. And if they're willing to take novice me under their wing, why would I say no?
This won't be a small endeavor. Last I heard, there were five of us, 80+ pounds of cukes, untold gallons of vinegar...and important decisions to be made regarding whole vs. sliced, slices vs. chips, and straight vs. crinkle cut. I'm working mightily to come up with some opinions on the perfect pickle between now and Sunday!
I think the day will be hysterical, and tons of fun. But I have to admit that when my friend emailed her plan to do 15lbs of pickles I panicked, wondering what on earth Steve and I would do with that amount of ANY food product, let alone one so specialized. (I even spent a whole afternoon trying to come up with a viable pickle-themed decorating scheme for our apartment, where every room would be adorned by a few thoughtfully-placed jars...) Since then, fortunately, the ladies have assured me that I can do just a few pickles...
But if you're a member of my family, start planning your January meals around pickles, because that's what I'll be putting under the tree at Christmas!
7 comments:
Unimaginable, unless you know Peter Piper!
I have never canned pickles before, but I can only imagine the fun you will have. :)
Can I just say that I love you? You made me laugh many times today...
(wondering what my superhero type name would be...)
Oh man - my mom used to make pickles. I can still taste them when I think about them. To me, the cut doesn't matter. It's all in the flavor. Have fun!!!!
Just that picture of Larry makes me smile. And now you'll have something to bring to cookouts!!
I don't can, but I watch Veggie Tales!
My friend Elizabeth canned all her pickles last month. I can't wait to try them soon. She used her grandmother's recipe so I know they will be wonderful.
Have fun with your new friends.
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