Pickles! (Live From The Minnesota State Fair!)
Summary
Recorded live at the Minnesota State Fair, this episode explores the art of pickling with Wirecutter staffer Mackie Yazawa, fair judge Mary Barts, and prize-winning pickler Teresa Craig. They discuss the differences between dill and sour pickles, share tips for safe home canning, and explain what judges look for in a winning entry. The conversation concludes with a live taste test of various pickle treats, including sweet pickles, fermented varieties, and fair foods like fried pickles and pickle pie.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Instagram teen account safety features
Intro: Hosts at the Minnesota State Fair
Overview of the pickle guide and fair guests
Mackie Yazawa: The Wirecutter pickle testing process
Defining a good pickle and the Claussen debate
Mary Barts and Teresa Craig: Why pickling remains popular
Teresa Craig's journey from disqualified to winner
Mary Barts: Safety resources and water bath canning
Food safety: Botulism, sealing, and judging criteria
Sponsors: BritBox and Montblanc
Judging criteria: Uniformity, color, and brine clarity
Experimental pickles: Dandelion blossoms and candy
Taste test: Teresa's sweet and fermented pickles
Taste test: Candied cucumber and holiday flavors
Taste test: Fried pickles and pickle pie
Outro: Resources and show credits
Sponsor: ADT home security
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