Wonderful Pickled Asparagus

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 4 lbs fresh asparagus
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded,and cut into thin strips
• 5 cups white wine vinegar
• 2 cups water (distilled bottled if possible)
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 4 tablespoons pickling spices
• 2 teaspoons pickling salt or kosher salt

Directions

1. 1

   Place several slices of onion in the bottom of two 1-quart jars.

2. 2

   Trim the asparagus to fit in the jars; pack them in with the cut-end facing down.

3. 3

   Place the pepper strips in between asparagus.

4. 4

   Combine the remaining ingredients in a saucepan, and boil over moderate heat for 10 minutes.

5. 5

   Pour into the jars, leaving 1/2-inch head space.

6. 6

   Seal the jars according to the manufacturer's directions; process for 20 minutes in boiling water bath.