Instructions

1.   Prepare boiling water canner. Heat jars in simmering water until ready to use, do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands.

1. Wash cucumbers and hot peppers in cold water. Slice 1/16 of an inch off the blossom end of each cucumber; trim stem ends so cucumbers measure about 3 inches. Cut cucumbers into quarters lengthwise.

1. Combine water, vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small stainless saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Lower heat to simmer.

1. Place 1 garlic clove, 3 dill sprigs, ½ tsp mustard seed, 1 bay leaf and 1 red pepper and Ball® Pickle Crisp (if desired) into a hot jar that is sitting on a towel (not directly on the counter.) Pack cucumber spears into the jar, leaving a ½ inch headspace. Trim any cucumbers that are too tall. 

1. Ladle hot brine into a hot jar leaving a ½ inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe jar rim. Center lid on the jar and apply the band, adjust to fingertip tight. Place jar in boiling water canner. Repeat until all jars are filled.

1.   Process jars 15 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Turn off heat, remove the lid, let jars stand 5 minutes. Remove jars and cool 12-24 hours. Check lids for a seal, they should not flex when the center is pressed.