Quick Refrigerator Pickles – Asian Style

Sterilize two pint glass jars and lids (run through dishwasher).

Cut the 1/4 ” of the ends off of the end of each kirby cucumber**. Slice them in half lengthwise, then each half in thirds yielding 6 spears each.

Place the cucumber spears in a very large bowl, cover with lots of ice, then some cool water so the cucumber are submerged. Put in the refrigerator for two hours(at least) until crispy. If the ice melts, simply add some more. (Don’t miss this step- you pickles are guaranteed to be crunchy!) Can substitute some multi-colored carrot spears too.

Drain, then place the cucumbers dry in a clean kitchen towel.

Add some garlic chives to each pint glass jar, pushing them towards the outside glass.
Add 4 ginger slices to the bottom of each jar.
Fill each jar with the cucumbers – packing them in.

Make the pickle brining solution:
To a large non-aluminum pot, add the two vinegars, sugar, pickling spice, shichimi togarashi and kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer, and stir up for just a few minutes until the sugar and salt has dissolved.

Pour the HOT solution into the jars to within 1/4 inch of top – I used a plastic jar funnel (purchase at hardware stores). Cover tightly with the jar tops.

Cool at room temperature until cool, about 2 hours. Place in the refrigerator.
Ready to eat in 2 – 3 days. A more developed flavor in a week.

Will keep fresh and tasty for up to 2 months.

Enjoy!