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Fermented pickles are an earlier form of preserving. The cucumbers are cleaned, often soaked in salt water for 24 hours, and then placed in a crock or fermentation vessel. It’s important to note that no vinegar is used in fermentation. A brine of water, salt, spices, and sugar (at times) is poured on top of the cucumbers. Over the coming days, the cucumbers ferment with the brine and create flavor. The brine needs to completely cover the cucumbers to prevent spoilage. After a certain amount of days, when the pickles gain the desired flavor, they’re jarred up and kept in the refrigerator at a stable state for at least one year.