Spicy Pickled Green Beans

1 . Stage

Submerge 3 pint jars on a rack in a large pot of water. Cover and bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low to keep jars warm until ready to fill.

2 . Stage

Combine vinegar, water, and pickling salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

3 . Stage

Working with one jar at a time, remove empty jars from canning pot and add 1/3 of crushed red and cayenne peppers to each. Pack green beans into jars, leaving 1/2 inch for headspace.

4 . Stage

Slowly pour hot brine over beans, leaving 1/2 inch for headspace. Use a clean wooden chopstick to work air bubbles out of jars. Slip in additional beans if space allows; check headspace again and add more brine if necessary to bring to 1/2 inch from top.

5 . Stage

Wipe jar rims, apply lids and bands (not too tightly), and return jars to canning pot. Cover pot and return water to a rolling boil. Process for 10 minutes. Turn off heat, remove pot lid, and let jars stand in the cooling water 5 minutes to help ensure a good vacuum seal.

6 . Stage

Move jars to a folded kitchen towel or wooden cutting board to cool completely before checking seals. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and eaten promptly. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Sealed jars are shelf-stable at least 1 year.