1-First step: prepare the cherries Start by washing the 1 kg cherries well, then pat them dry with a clean towel. Keep the stems and stones intact, just as the recipe directs, because this helps the cherries stay plump and attractive during pickling. This little bit of care also makes the final texture more satisfying.

2-Second step: make the brine Pour the 750 ml white wine vinegar into a pot, then add the 250 g white sugar, 1 tablespoon salt, 3 cloves, and 5 black peppercorns. Set the pot over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves. The brine should smell bright, spicy, and a little sweet even before it simmers. Once the sugar has dissolved, let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. This short simmer helps the spices infuse the vinegar and creates a fuller flavor. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit just long enough to be safe to handle.

3-Third step: pack the jar Take a sterilised jar and pack in the cherries along with 1 sprig of fresh thyme. Try to nestle them in tightly but without crushing the fruit. The thyme should sit somewhere visible in the jar because it adds both flavor and a lovely rustic look.

4-Fourth step: add the hot vinegar Carefully pour the warm brine over the cherries until they are completely covered. If the fruit floats, gently press it down with a clean spoon so everything stays submerged. Full coverage matters because the vinegar is what gives these Savoury Spanish Style Pickled Cherries their long shelf life and their tangy bite. If needed, tap the jar lightly on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles. This helps the liquid settle around the fruit. Make sure the rim stays clean before sealing the jar.

5-Final step: seal and store Seal the jar tightly, then place it in a cool dark place for 1 month before using. That waiting period is where the flavor really comes together. The cherries will soften just a little while still keeping their shape, and the brine will become beautifully balanced. After opening, store the jar in the fridge and use the cherries within 2 weeks. Unopened, they will keep for up to 8 months, which makes them a lovely make-ahead pantry item for busy weeks and special occasions alike.