Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s a list to get you started:
- Peppers of your choice (jalapenos, banana peppers, etc.)
- White vinegar
- Water
- Salt
- Sugar
- Garlic cloves
- Peppercorns
- Dill seeds
- Canning jars
- Canning lids and bands
- Canning pot or large stockpot
- Jar lifter
Clean and Prepare the Peppers
Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and cut them into your desired size and shape. If you prefer milder pickled peppers, consider removing the seeds.
Create the Pickling Liquid
In a large pot, combine vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.
Pack the Jars
Fill each canning jar with the prepared peppers, leaving a little bit of space at the top. Add a few garlic cloves, peppercorns, and dill seeds to each jar for extra flavor.
Pour the Pickling Liquid
Carefully ladle the hot pickling liquid into each jar, making sure to cover the peppers completely. Leave about ¼ inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Seal the Jars
Wipe the jar rims to ensure they are clean and dry. Place a canning lid on top of each jar and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
Process the Jars
Using a canning pot or large stockpot, bring water to a boil. Carefully lower the jars into the boiling water using a jar lifter. Process the jars for about 10 minutes.
Cool and Store
After the processing time is up, remove the jars from the pot and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Let the jars cool completely. As they cool, you should hear a satisfying popping sound, indicating that a vacuum seal has formed. Once cool, store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks to allow the flavors to develop. Afterward, they are ready to enjoy!
Now that you know how simple it is to make homemade pickled peppers, why not give it a try? With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a delightful jar of pickled peppers that will add a punchy flavor to your meals. Happy pickling!