My okra plants are growing large (chest high at this point - they can reach upwards of 8-10 feet) but they aren't making as many pods as plants in the past. Maybe they're waiting for the heat of August. I made brine for picking and cut up a 4" poblano pepper and one of my homegrown garlics and trimmed the skin off of the tops of the okra (leaving them closed so seeds don't float out). I packed on pint jar and filled with brine then processed it for 10 minutes in my asparagus steamer pot. There was another equivalent amount that I took next door to my neighbor who loves this fried, boiled, etc., (I eat it fried and sometimes use it stir-fried - I'm not a fan of the consistency of boiled okra). I'll pick more as the plants keep growing and next time I have enough I'll warm the brine, cut up another pepper and peel another garlic, and do it again. This works so much better than trying to save a bunch to make a big recipe, so much gets too old and goes to waste.

I'm thinking about making another batch of the Ball Blue Book Zesty Salsa. It has been a hit with the family members who have gotten a taste. I made a gallon before, but it goes fast when divided among several households. This time it depends on if I have enough peppers or have to supplement my supply from the grocery store.