Pickling Spices

Rev 1.00, last revised:  21-Sep-08

Commonly known as "mixed pickling spices", this collection of savory spices are at the heart of more recipes than just pickles.  And, being a founding member of the "I'm a dyed-in-the-wool curmudgeon" club, I've posted that simple little recipe here for myself and those interested enough to find it.

INGREDIENTS: Allspice, Bay Leaves, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Cloves, Coriander, Dill, Ginger, Mace, Mustard Seed, Red Pepper, and [optionally] Cardamom.

• 2-teaspoons whole Allspice
• 8 Bay Leaves, hand crushed into smaller pieces
• 2 tablespoons Black peppercorns
• 4-Cinnamon sticks, broken/coarsely crushed into smaller pieces
• 2 teaspoons whole Cloves
• 2 teaspoons Coriander seeds
• 2 teaspoons Dill seeds
• a 1-inch piece dried Ginger, chopped (fresh can be used as well, but can't be stored that way)
• 2 teaspoons whole Mace
• 2-tablespoons Mustard seeds
• 1-teaspoon dried Red Pepper flakes (to taste)
• [optional] 1-2 Cardamom pods, hulls removed

Mix all ingredients and store in an air-tight container.  Use as needed.