Description

Pickled Beets offer a bright and tangy flavor that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of fresh beets with vinegar’s zing. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these versatile pickles enhance salads, sandwiches, and sides, keeping fresh for weeks and providing nutrient-packed goodness with every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Fresh Beets: 4-5 medium-sized, firm with deep color
Vinegar (white or apple cider): 1 cup
Sugar: 1/2 cup
Water: 1/2 cup
Salt: 1 teaspoon

Spices

Mustard Seeds: 1 teaspoon
Cloves: 4-5 whole
Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon

Optional Additions

Garlic: 2-3 cloves, sliced (optional)
Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Beets: Wash and trim the fresh beets. Boil or steam them until just tender, about 30-40 minutes depending on size. While still warm, peel off the skins. Slice the beets into discs, wedges, or cubes according to your preference.
Make the Pickling Brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, cloves, and peppercorns. Heat the mixture until the sugar and salt fully dissolve and the spices become fragrant.
Pack the Jars: Place the sliced beets along with optional garlic or onion slices into sterilized glass jars. Carefully pour the hot brine over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the jars tightly.
Let Them Pickle: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying. The flavors deepen over time, becoming even tastier after a few days.

Notes

Cut beets into uniform slices for even pickling and texture.
Sterilize jars and lids thoroughly to prevent spoilage.
Adjust sugar to balance sweetness without overpowering the natural beet flavor.
Use whole fresh spices for optimal aroma rather than pre-ground.
Keep pickled beets refrigerated promptly to maintain crispness and freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Boiling/Steaming and Pickling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 40
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

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