PICKLING BRINE FOR EGGS RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare the jars. Wash 2 wide-mouth pint jars, lids, and rings in warm, soapy water and rinse well. Set aside to dry, or dry completely by hand.
• Prepare the vegetables. Wash and dry the vegetables. Peel the carrots. Trim the end of beans. Cut vegetables into desired shapes and sizes.
• Add the flavorings. Divide the herbs, spices, or garlic you are using between the jars.
• Add the vegetables. Pack the vegetables into the jars, making sure there is a 1/2 inch of space from the rim of the jar to the tops of the vegetables. Pack them in as tightly as you can without smashing.
• Make the brine. Place the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if using) in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt and sugar. Pour the brine over the vegetables, filling each jar to within 1/2 inch of the top. You might not use all the brine.
• Remove air bubbles. Gently tap the jars against the counter a few times to remove all the air bubbles. Top off with more brine if necessary.
• Seal the jars. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until tight.
• Cool and refrigerate. Let the jars cool to room temperature. Store the pickles in the refrigerator. The pickles will improve with flavor as they age — try to wait at least 48 hours before cracking them open.

Steps:

• Place peeled, hard-boiled eggs into a quart wide mouth mason jar (or use a half recipe for pint jars).
• Place liquids (water/vinegar, etc) into a small saucepan and add sugar and salt. Gently heat until dissolved, then remove from heat.
• Add spices and sliced veggies (onions/garlic/etc) directly into the jars.
• Pour the hot brine over the eggs and spices, leaving as little headspace as possible (around 1/4 inch).
• Seal jars with lids and allow them to cool slightly before storing them in the refrigerator.
• Allow the eggs to pickle for at least 24 hours before eating, preferably around 1-2 weeks for better flavors.
• Pickled eggs should last 3-4 months in the refrigerator.