Spiced Pickled Oysters

Ingredients

• 1/4 ounce whole black pepper
• 1/4 ounce whole mace
• 1/2 pint white wine vinegar
• 1 pound salt
• Oysters in their own liquor
• Little water

Method

1. 1 Place oysters in their own liquor with a little water, mace, pepper, and salt in a pot.
2. 2 Heat gently, skimming well, and allow to just boil briefly to avoid hardening.
3. 3 Remove oysters to dry, then skim the cooking liquor.
4. 4 Add the remaining spice and vinegar to the liquor; if too strong, reduce slightly and boil briefly.
5. 5 Let the pickle cool completely, then submerge oysters in it.
6. 6 Wait a day or two, then taste and add more vinegar if the pickle is not sharp enough.