Cornichons (tiny Tart Pickles)

from “The Foodlover’s Guide to Paris” by Patricia Wells:

“The cornichon, a tiny tart pickle, is ubiquitous in France. Cornichons
arrive at the table in squat white crocks, ready to be served with pates,
rilletes, slices of salty country ham, or with pot-au-feu. The first time I
made cornichons was in New York City. Picking through a bin of garden-fresh
cucumbers at the farmer’s market on Union Square, I was able to come up
with enough tiny cucumbers to make one precious quart. Now, frankly, I’m
spoiled, for each August, the fresh cucumbers appear in abundance in Paris’
open- air markets, ready for “putting up” with tiny white onions and plenty
of fresh tarragon. I like them spicy and hot, so I add plenty of garlic and
hot peppers.”

1. Trim off stem ends of the cucumbers, then rinse and drain. In a large
bowl combine the salt with 1 quart (1 litre) water. Stir until the salt is
dissolved, add the cucumbers, and let stand in a cool place for 6 hours.

2. Scald two 1 quart (1 litre) canning jars, lids, and rings with boiling
water and drain well.

3. Drain the cucumbers, discarding the salted water.

4. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat combine the vinegar, 1.5
cups (375 ml) water, and the sugar, and bring to a boil.

5. Layer the jars with the drained cucumbers, the onions, herbs and spices,
making sure to divide the ingredients evenly between the jars.

6. Pour the boiling vinegar, water and sugar mixture into the jars, letting
a bit of the liquid overflow the jars; this helps seal the lids well. Wipe
the rim of each jar and seal. Let stand until cool. Store in a cool place
for at least three weeks before serving. Refrigerate after opening.

Yield: 2 quarts (2 litres) cornichons.