
A historical preserve from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913). These pickles must not be kept air-tight - use old jars with loose-fitting or missing covers.
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
Pick over your berries, using only sound ones
Fill your jars or wide-mouthed bottles to within an inch of the top
Pour in molasses
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Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
Molasses acts as a natural preservative through osmosis, drawing moisture from the blueberries while its high sugar content (around 70%) creates an inhospitable environment for most bacteria. The loose-fitting lids allow fermentation gases to escape while beneficial acids develop, creating a shelf-stable preserve through lacto-fermentation. The blueberries' natural pectin and acidity work synergistically with the molasses to create a thick, tangy condiment that improves with age.
This entire recipe is designed for long-term preservation. The pickles develop their characteristic flavor over 2-4 weeks and can be made months in advance. They will continue to ferment and intensify in flavor over time.
Store in a cool, dark place (55-65°F ideal, such as a cellar or pantry) with loose-fitting lids to allow fermentation gases to escape. Check weekly and skim off any foam or mold from the surface. The pickles will keep for 6-12 months under proper conditions. Once opened and regularly used, they can last several months. Do not refrigerate or seal airtight, as this will halt the beneficial fermentation process.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
This entire recipe is designed for long-term preservation. The pickles develop their characteristic flavor over 2-4 weeks and can be made months in advance. They will continue to ferment and intensify in flavor over time.
Store in a cool, dark place (55-65°F ideal, such as a cellar or pantry) with loose-fitting lids to allow fermentation gases to escape. Check weekly and skim off any foam or mold from the surface. The pickles will keep for 6-12 months under proper conditions. Once opened and regularly used, they can last several months. Do not refrigerate or seal airtight, as this will halt the beneficial fermentation process.