Pickled Okra

Directions

1. 1
   If preserving the okra, sterilize six 1-pint heat-tempered canning jars (see Know-how, page 291).
2. 2
   To each jar, add 2 chile peppers, 2 dill sprigs, 2 garlic cloves, 2 or 3 carrot sticks, and 1/2 teaspoon of the dill seeds.
3. 3
   Tightly pack the okra in the hot jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace to ensure a proper seal.
4. 4
   Combine the vinegar, water, and salt in a large saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt.
5. 5
   Pour the hot liquid over the okra, maintaining the 1/2-inch headspace.
6. 6
   For refrigerator pickles, seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for 2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop before serving.
7. 7
   Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve, or for up to 1 month.
8. 8
   For preserved pickles, process in a hot water bath for about 20 minutes to vacuum-seal (see Know-how, page 291).
9. 9
   Let cool to room temperature, check the seal, and store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to develop before serving, or for up to 6 months.
10. 10
    Refrigerate after opening.
11. 11
    Give vodka or gin dirty martinis (shaken, not stirred) a Southern twang by adding a splash of pickled okra brine in place of olive brine and garnishing each with 1 or 2 spears of pickled okra.