Today I was given a large bucket of olives freshly picked. Although I googled "curing olives" there were so many listings and so many different instructions it was overwhelming. I wonder if anyone would have some information on this.
Last night I watched a food tv program called "Good Eats" The entire show was on olives and how to preserve them. I think you could look it up on food network.
What i remember him saying is....YOu must first soak the fresh olives in a Lye soloution for several days. This removes the bitter taste then in fresh water for several more. these can be at room temp. He had them in plastic container with lids. Then depending on how you would like them you can preserve them in a brine (which is usually a vinegar soloution), or oil.
Just type in the address below and this will take you to the show...hope this helps...
www.foodnetwork.com/
Here is a recipe from Better Homes and Gardens - Nov. 2005 - that I used successfully last year with green olives, and this year with black olives:
Make a brine: Add 500 g cooking salt to 4 litres water and stir over low heat till salt is dissolved. (I found that I did not need all this quantity). Leave till cool. Place drained olives in sterilised jars, add brine to cover, then top with a layer of olive oil. Seal and store in a cool, dry place 2 - 3 months before using.
I layered the green olives with garlic cloves, small chillis, and lemon rind, and they turned out brilliantly. I did the same this year with black olives, but they aren't ready for eating yet.
Regards, Brenda from Melbourne, Australia
Thank you very much for the tips Melfrmny and Brenda. I have started the process (Aussie style) and am hoping to have the same success.
Thanks again,
Maree
