best ever dill pickles

In each sterilized jar put:
1/4 tsp alum
1 tsp whole peppercorns
1 bay leaf
1 small clove garlic, peeled

Combine the following brine ingredients and bring to a boil:
1 cup salt
5 quarts water
1 1/2 quarts vinegar

Scrub about 150 3 inch cucumbers and pack into jars with alum, peppercorns, bay leaf, and garlic.  Poke dried dill around sides.  Pour in boiling brine and seal.

Process 5 minutes in hot water bath to ensure sealing.  Makes about 13 quarts.