How to Cure Olives at Home

1. 1

   Select & Slit

   30 min - 1 hr

   Choose ripe, unblemished olives; wash thoroughly and make 2-3 small slits in each.

2. 2

   First Soak

   1 day

   Place olives in a large container, cover completely with fresh cold water, and weigh them down to keep submerged.

3. 3

   Refresh Water Daily

   7-10 days

   Drain the water daily and replace with fresh cold water for 7-10 days, or until the olives lose their initial bitterness.

4. 4

   Taste Test Bitterness

   5 min

   After a week of daily water changes, taste an olive to check if the bitterness has diminished to your liking.

5. 5

   Make Brine Solution

   15 min

   Dissolve 1/2 cup of sea salt in 4 cups of water; scale up as needed to ensure all olives will be fully covered.

6. 6

   Brine & Jar

   30 min

   Drain the water from the olives, pack them into clean jars, cover with the prepared brine, and add optional herbs or spices.

7. 7

   Maturation Period

   2-4 weeks

   Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks to allow the flavors to fully develop before enjoying.