‘Kind of a Big Dill’: Celebrating Pickling Creativity and Food Sovereignty

The vibrant atmosphere at the Four Sisters Farmers Market in Minneapolis echoed with excitement as attendees sampled an array of homemade pickles during the annual Pickle-Off. This lively contest, organized by Cassie Holmes and other dedicated community members, not only crowned the best picklers but also emphasized the importance of food sovereignty within Indigenous communities.

Community members enjoy sampling entries at the Pickle-Off.

A Community Tradition

What began as a lighthearted rivalry among neighbors has evolved into a beloved community event, now in its third year. Inspired by local urban farmers and their claims to the best pickles, the annual pickle festivity aims to inspire residents to preserve food, sharing the bounty of their gardens and promoting local food networks. Notably, the Native American Community Development Institute and the Indian Health Board of Minneapolis sponsored this enriching event.

Marking the day with awards and handmade trophies, Holmes and her fellow organizers recognized the talents of local picklers with prizes adorned with the phrase “kind of a big dill.” This not only lightened the competitive spirit but highlighted the joy and celebration behind food preservation.

Empowering Small Businesses

The Pickle-Off also serves to showcase small businesses within the community. The duo of Tyra Payer and Paige Hietpas, founders of the canning business CanIHaveSome, explained their passion for this craft.

“At the end of the day, this is just a life-giving project for us,” said Hietpas. “Sometimes it makes for some long nights, but I think it’s worth it because we get to share food together.”

Payer, a citizen of the Turtle Mountain Ojibwe, noted that the event isn’t merely about competition; it’s a vital means of keeping cultural traditions alive and accessible. As the community judges sampled from a plethora of entries, it became clear that these efforts in food production reflect deeper cultural roots.

Participants gather to celebrate local traditions and share their creations.

Judging the Jars

This year’s contest featured various categories, including Dill and Special, where over half a dozen entries dazzled the palate of esteemed judges. Among them, Destiny Jones, a Ho-Chunk citizen, stood out with her Spicy Dill recipe.

“I use a lot of fresh herbs… so that includes dill, garlic and fresh peppers. So, it is spicy dill, and I feel like that got me some extra points," Jones shared, delighting in her triumph as the winner of the Best Pickle award.

A Holistic Approach to Food Sovereignty

Furthermore, Dr. Angie Erdrich, another participant who previously claimed victory, emphasized the intrinsic connection between gardening and healthy eating. Her award-winning bread and butter pickles stem from ingredients she cultivates.

“I grow all my own cucumbers; I have a special way of growing them. So, they grow vertically,” Erdrich explained, showcasing a method that aligns perfectly with urban gardening practices.

Jason Garcia, a judge focused on local Indigenous food systems, noted that events like the Pickle-Off nurture community ties and individual ownership of food production, framing it as a holistic approach to food sovereignty.

“Taking care of their food and taking ownership of what they’re putting into their bodies. It’s really a full, holistic approach to food sovereignty," he said, capturing the event’s essence.

Growing your own ingredients is a key aspect of food sovereignty.

More Than Just Pickles

As part of Food Preservation Month, the Pickle-Off taught many eager participants the essentials of curing, pickling, freezing, and canning. It serves as a reminder of the rich traditions of food preservation, particularly within Indigenous communities, where such practices foster not only resilience but also connection to heritage.

This lively event encapsulates the spirit of community, creativity, and cultural pride, inviting everyone to partake in the joys of cooking and sharing food that once grew from local soil. The Pickle-Off is indeed more than just a competition; it’s a festival celebrating flavors, stories, and the enduring relationship between community and food.

Join the Movement

Engagement in such events can inspire others to start their own gardens, champion local produce, and explore the joys of pickling—a timeless method cherished across generations. As communities grow more aware of their food sources and traditions, the value of these local initiatives continues to resonate far beyond the immediate gathering.

So whether you’re a seasoned pickler or a curious newcomer, consider grabbing a jar, some cucumbers, and embracing the delightful art of preserving food. Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be the one taking home the trophies!