HOMEMADE GERMAN MUSTARD PICKLES (SENFGURKEN) RECIPE

Steps:

• Peel 4 1/2 pounds cucumbers, cut them in half lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and then cut into 1/2-inch chunks.
• Layer them in 2 to 3 clean quart canning jars together with some sliced onion and fresh dill sprigs.
• In a large nonreactive (no aluminum) saucepan, make the brine by bringing 2 cups white-wine vinegar, 2 cups water, 2 1/2 cups sugar, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seed, 6 juniper berries, 1/2 teaspoon whole coriander, 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, 1/4 teaspoon whole caraway, 1/4 teaspoon whole dill seed, 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice, 1 crumbled bay leaf, 4 whole cloves, 1/8 teaspoon powdered ginger and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil. Cook for 3 minutes or until sugar and salt are dissolved.
• Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in the jars to within 1/4 inch of the rim of the glass. Close immediately. Store in a cool spot or refrigerator. If you do not want to process further, keep them refrigerated and they should last for a couple of weeks (see the Note, below).
• They are ready to eat after 24 hours but the flavors get stronger as they age.
• Note: Some people say that the pickles made this way (raw pack) keep for several months without further processing. As they cool, a vacuum creates a seal, much like cooking in a water bath.
• Generally, I prefer to process or can anything I do not want to refrigerate. If you want to can these pickles they will become softer but keep for months on the shelf.