Gherkins

Ingredients:
[ ] 300–400 g mini cucumbers (washed, ends trimmed)

Brine:
[ ] 250 ml apple cider vinegar
[ ] 250 ml filtered water
[ ] 1½ teaspoons salt
[ ] 2 teaspoons honey

Balanced spice blend:
[ ] 1 clove black garlic (halved)
[ ] 1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds (lightly crushed)
[ ] ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
[ ] ½ teaspoon coriander seeds (lightly crushed)
[ ] 2 sprigs fresh dill
[ ] 1 small bay leaf

Method:
[ ] Pack the cucumbers tightly into a clean glass jar
[ ] Place garlic, mustard seeds, peppercorns, coriander seeds and bay leaf between the cucumbers, tuck the dill towards the top
[ ] In a saucepan, gently heat the apple cider vinegar, water, salt and honey
[ ] Stir until dissolved, do not boil aggressively
[ ] Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers until fully covered
[ ] Allow to cool completely, then seal and refrigerate. Let the gherkins mature for 3 days before opening