Description
These homemade pickled beets are a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors. They are easy to prepare and make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a flavorful side dish
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds fresh beets
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Prepare the Beets
- Wash the beets thoroughly under running water and trim off the greens, leaving about 1 inch of the stem attached.
- Place the beets in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain and let the beets cool until they can be handled comfortably. Peel off the skins and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds or wedges.
- Make the Pickling Brine
- In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
- Add cloves, allspice, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and the cinnamon stick.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pack and Pickle the Beets
- Pack the sliced beets into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are fully covered. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
- If using whole spices, distribute them evenly among the jars.
- Seal the Jars
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- Place sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
- Storage Options
- For quick pickles: Let the jars cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- For long-term storage: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Once sealed, store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the pickled beets to sit for at least 24 hours before eating for the best flavor.
- Serve them as a side dish, in salads, or as a delicious topping for sandwiches and burgers
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add 1 sliced jalapeño or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the jars.
- If using apple cider vinegar, it will add a slightly fruitier depth to the flavor.
- The longer the beets sit in the pickling liquid, the better the flavor develops!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes