For the first time, I canned pickles. I need to add that it was a highly supervised, step-by-step activity as I was in a class at the time. I was excited when our favorite local produce stand hosted the opportunity, taught by University of MO Extension, this past Saturday. When it was first advertised a few weeks ago, I singed-up for it.
It was a good experience since I learned a lot and it's something I would not have tried on my own. The instructor took us through the entire process and, in the end, each class member took home our own pint of pickles.
Canning, we were taught, is regaining popularity. I know that aside from tomatoes, my mother didn't can as I was growing up and she still doesn't. My grandma, though, grew up on a farm and in her day, they canned everything. I loved hearing her tell stories of their fully-stocked cellar. She told us that it was her job to use the feather duster on the rows and rows of canned fruits, vegetables and meats and how when she did so, the glass jars would catch the sun and sparkle. She found that a highly satisfying chore.
Have you ever canned? If so, what was your specialty? Did you ever make pickles?