How to Make Pickled Apples

Pickled apples are a delicious and versatile way to preserve apples and enjoy them throughout the year. They can be used in salads, sandwiches, and as a side dish. Here's a basic recipe for making pickled apples:

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds of firm, tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Bramley

- 2 cups of apple cider vinegar

- 1 cup of water

- 1/4 cup of sugar

- 1 tablespoon of pickling salt

- 1 teaspoon of whole cloves

- 1 teaspoon of whole allspice berries

- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds

- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the apples: Wash and core the apples, but do not peel them. Cut them into thin slices or wedges.

2. Make the pickling liquid: In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, cloves, allspice berries, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt.

3. Add the apples to the pickling liquid: Once the pickling liquid has come to a boil, reduce heat to low and carefully add the apple slices to the saucepan. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still slightly firm.

4. Transfer the apples to a jar: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, carefully transfer the apple slices to a clean glass jar or jars.

5. Pour the pickling liquid over the apples: Once the apples are in the jar, pour the hot pickling liquid over them. Make sure that the apples are completely submerged in the liquid.

6. Seal the jars: Seal the jars tightly with lids and let them cool completely. Store the pickled apples in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before eating them. The longer they are stored, the more flavorful they will become.

Enjoy your homemade pickled apples! They will keep for several months when properly stored.