• 5 lb (2.3 kg) damsons
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 3" (7.5 cm) cinnamon stick
• 2" (5 cm) root ginger
• Rind of half a lemon
• 2 lb sugar (900 g) sugar
• 1 pint ((570 ml) white wine vinegar

Method:

1. Peel, half and stone the damsons.
2. Tie the cloves, allspice, cinnamon, ginger and lemon rind in a muslin bag.
3. Put the sugar and vinegar into a large stainless steel or enamelled pan and heat until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Bring the syrup to the boil, add the damsons and bag of spices.
5. Simmer for about 5 minutes or until the damsons are just soft.
6. Remove the damsons using a slotted spoon and pack them into clean, hot, sterilized jars.
7. Boil the syrup until it has reduced by about one.third.
8. Discard the bag of spices and pour the syrup over the damsons, allowing the syrup to penetrate through.
9. If necessary add more syrup until the jars are full.
10. Cover and seal.
11. Label with contents and date once the jars are fully cool.

Makes around 5 lb (2.3 kg).

Note: Bottle any remaining syrup as the damsons may need topping up during storage.

Making Your Own Pickles Help

This article will get you started and explain the finer ponts of making your own pickles:

• Pickles - Making Pickles at Home

Making Your Own Pickle?

Quality equipment at reasonable prices - everything from fabric jar covers and labels to jam making thermometers, strainers and muslin. available from Allotment Shopping. Cookware, Marmalade, Jam & Chutney Making Equipment.