Pickling Mishaps and Solutions: Avoiding common problems

Pickling is a time-honoured method of preserving and enhancing the flavour of fruits and vegetables. Whether you're a seasoned pickling pro or a novice trying your hand at homemade pickles for the first time, mishaps can happen. In this guide, we'll explore the most common pickling problems and provide simple solutions to ensure your pickling endeavours are a success.

1. Keep your produce and jar clean:

A cloudy pickling liquid can be unappetizing and affect the visual appeal of your pickles. This cloudiness can be caused by unwanted bacteria in your pickling jar, which also can dramatically shorten the shelf life. There are two main ways these bacteria find their way into your pickling jar, on dirty produce or during serving.  To avoid contamination via the produce itself, make sure it is thoroughly cleaned before pickling. The same goes for when you are serving, make sure to use a clean utensil and never use your fingers (unless you are finishing the jar).

2. How to avoid diluting your pickles: 

Sometimes, when pickling produce with abundant and easily accessible juices, this can lead to the pickling liquid being somewhat diluted. To combat this, simply press the lid against the top of the jar and drain off the excess liquid before pouring over your Sylt. 

Due to the liquid transfer between the pickled produce and the pickling liquid, it means the latter will become diluted and thus lose its potency over time. We therefore recommend you only reuse your Sylt pickling liquid once before you refresh. 

Conclusion:

Pickling is a delightful and rewarding experience, but it's not without its challenges. By avoiding common pickling problems and implementing the solutions provided, you can enhance your pickling skills and enjoy a flavorful, crisp pickle. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with each pickle, you'll become more adept at avoiding mishaps and creating the perfect pickles to savour and share. 

Pickle Yourself Silly!