How can I open this jar of

[Peaceflower]

Haywards whole gherkins?

Came across this at Sainsbury's, and on impulse, decided to buy it. I know lots hate them, but I love gherkins and haven't had any for years.

I have tried and tried, but have been unable to open the jar. I have tried banging the lid, used hot water, used one of those Branbantia lid opener thingys, used a linen kitchen towel, etc.

Being a single parent, I do not have a hunky man to open the lid!

I'm about to give up and return the jar to the shop!

Get a big spoon and wedge it under one of the notchy bits of the lid; lever it up to release the suction. Then you should be able to open it

Stab the lid with a sharp knife thus breaking the suction that is holding it in place.

If they're pickled it won't matter that you've made a hole in the lid, they'll keep fine in the fridge.

I stab the top with a corkscrew point bit safer that a sharp knife

What mistressploppy says, but I would use a knife (easier to fit under the lid).

pierce a hole in the lid with a sharp object (be careful, use a tea towel to keep it steady) to release the air

going to try your suggestions now

Hooray, I stuck a corkscrew under the lid and twisted,hey presto, there was a little pop and the lid opened.

Thank you all. Now then, do I really want a gherkin at 9:50 in the morning, hmmmmmm

Shit shit shit. Forgot to put the gherkins in DD1's packed lunch (when I was making it at midnight last night ). Am not going to be popular tonight....

AwwwWWW, now I want a gherkin...

your all mad, gerkins are vile

Picked a fat gherkin out of the jar, sliced it into 8 thin slices, and savoured each one. Divine

oooh you don't slice gherkins! Have to be whole nothing like eating a lovely green fat crunchy and juicy wally