Preserved Grape Vine Leaves - water

Method

• Pick leaves early in their growth period, that is early summer, when vines are covered with leaves.
• Choose leaves of medium light colour, not too young.
• If vines have been sprayed, wait for period recommended for general harvest by manufacturer of insecticide.
• When picking, snip off stem.
• Wash leaves and stack in piles of 24, with shiny side up.
• Roll up and tie with string.
• Bring 8 cups water to the boil with 1/4 cup salt.
• Drop in 4 bundles at a time, return to the boil and blanch for 3 minutes, turning rolls over to blanch evenly.
• Lift out and drain.
• Repeat with remaining rolls.
• Make a brine with 8 cups water boiled with 1 cup rock salt.
• Pack rolls upright into warm sterilized jars and pour hot brine over leaves.
• Remove air bubbles and seal when cold.
• Brine is sufficient for 20 bundles of leaves.
• Increase accordingly to quantity being preserved.