Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that green olives are essentially unripe olives that are treated to remove their bitterness. This process can take some time, but the end result is well worth the effort.
Step 1: Harvesting and Sorting
To start, you’ll need to harvest green olives when they’re still green and firm. Make sure to pick them carefully to avoid any bruising or damage. Once , sort them to remove any overripe or damaged olives. Only select the best ones for the preservation process.
Step 2: Brine Preparation
Next, you’ll need to create a brine solution for the olives to soak in. In a large container, dissolve 1 cup of coarse sea salt in 4 cups of water. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved. This brine solution will help remove the bitterness from the olives.
Step 3: Slitting the Olives
Using a sharp knife, make a small incision or slit in each green olive. This step is crucial as it allows the brine solution to penetrate the olives and remove the bitter compounds more effectively.
Step 4: Soaking in Brine
Place the slitted olives in the prepared brine solution and ensure they are completely submerged. You can use a weight or a plate to keep the olives from floating to the surface. Cover the container and let the olives soak in the brine for around 8 to 10 days. During this time, make sure to stir the olives daily to ensure even curing.
Step 5: Changing the Brine
After the initial soaking period, remove the olives from the brine and discard the liquid. Rinse the olives thoroughly to remove any excess salt. Now, prepare a brine solution by dissolving 1 cup of coarse sea salt in 4 cups of water. Return the olives to the container and cover them with the fresh brine. Repeat this process every 10 days for a total of 4 to 5 weeks.
Step 6: Final Rinse and Storage
Once the olives have finished their last brining cycle, rinse them one final time to remove any excess salt. Now, you can transfer them to clean jars or containers for storage. Cover the olives with a mixture of olive oil and your choice of herbs or spices, such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary, for added flavor. Make sure the olives are completely covered in oil to prevent spoilage. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully prepared green olives at home. It may require some patience, but the result is a jar full of delightful, homemade olives that can be enjoyed anytime. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations. Whether you snack on them straight from the jar or use them in salads, pizzas, or pastas, your homemade green olives are sure to impress!