Jarring for canning I assume? Then "firmly" is the word used in the instructions. I fill my jars less 'firmly' then I fill the crock. Best way i can describe it is packed but loosely packed and the rest is brine. My jars have somewhat more brine in them than any commercial can I have ever opened.

Since it is hot when filling the jars you can't use your hands anyway so mine are filled with a straining scoop. Better to have too much brine in it than too little. You can always pour off brine after opening the jars but if too little is in there the food dries out and darkens.

Hope this helps.

Dave