Pickled Beets Recipe

Pickled beets recipe is a delicious and colorful addition to any meal, offering a tangy-sweet flavor that is both refreshing and unique. Whether you’re looking to spice up your salad, add a side dish to your meal, or just enjoy them on their own, pickled beets are a versatile treat. This recipe is simple to follow and yields a jar of vibrant pickled beets that can be enjoyed for weeks.

A Brief History of Pickled Beets:

Pickling has been a method of preserving food for centuries, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. Beets, with their deep red color and natural sweetness, became a popular vegetable for pickling in European countries. By the 19th century, pickled beets had made their way to North America, becoming a household staple for many. They’re still loved today for their zesty taste and long shelf life.

Pickled Beets Recipe

Pinklady

Pickling has been a method of preserving food for centuries, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. Beets, with their deep red color and natural sweetness, became a popular vegetable for pickling in European countries. By the 19th century, pickled beets had made their way to North America, becoming a household staple for many. They’re still loved today for their zesty taste and long shelf life.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Ancient Mesopotamia, Europe

Servings 4

Equipment

• Large pot
• Knife and cutting board
• Medium saucepan
• Sterilized quart jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 4 medium-sized beets
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf
• 3-4 whole cloves (optional)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)

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Instructions

 

• Start by thoroughly washing the beets under running water to remove any dirt.
• Cut off the tops and tails of the beets, leaving about an inch of the stems intact (this helps prevent bleeding during cooking).
• Place the beets in a large pot and fill with enough water to cover them.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the beets for 45–60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
• Once the beets are cooked, drain the pot and allow the beets to cool slightly.
• When cool enough to handle, rub the skins off the beets using your hands or a paper towel. The skins should come off easily.
• Slice the beets into ¼-inch thick rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, bay leaf, and cloves (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Remove the brine from heat.
• Place the sliced beets and onions (if using) into a sterilized quart-sized jar.
• Pour the hot brine over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged.
• Let the jar cool slightly before sealing it with a lid.
• Refrigerate and Wait

  Once sealed, refrigerate the jar of pickled beets for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
• The beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Video

Keyword Pickled Beets Recipe

Similar Recipes:

If you enjoyed making pickled beets, here are a few similar recipes you might want to try:

– Pickled Red Onions: A quick and tangy pickled side dish, perfect for topping tacos or sandwiches.
– Pickled Carrots: Crunchy and slightly sweet, pickled carrots make for a great snack or salad topping.
– Pickled Cucumber (Quick Pickles): Classic cucumber pickles, ready in just a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pickled Beets Recipe:

1. How long do pickled beets last?

Pickled beets can last up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator if stored in a sealed, sterilized jar.

2. Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?

Yes, white vinegar works fine, but apple cider vinegar adds a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor.

3. Do I have to add sugar to the brine?

Sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the natural sweetness of the beets, but you can reduce the amount or use a sugar substitute if desired.

4. Can I add other spices or herbs to the brine?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon, mustard seeds, or even garlic to the brine for additional flavor.

5. Can I pickle beets without boiling them first?

Boiling softens the beets and helps them absorb the brine. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can roast them instead.

6. Is it necessary to refrigerate pickled beets?

Yes, unless you’re using a canning method, pickled beets must be stored in the refrigerator for safety and freshness.

7. Can I reuse the pickling brine?

It’s not recommended to reuse the brine for pickling, but you can use it as a salad dressing or marinade for meats.

8. Can I use golden beets instead of red beets?

Yes! Golden beets work just as well and will give you a slightly different color and flavor.

9. How can I tell if my pickled beets have gone bad?

Signs of spoilage include a foul odor, mold, or an off-taste. If any of these appear, discard the pickled beets immediately.

10. Can I freeze pickled beets?

Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture and flavor of the beets.

Conclusion:

Pickled beets are a delightful way to preserve the earthy goodness of fresh beets while adding a tangy twist. Whether you serve them as a side dish, toss them into a salad, or enjoy them on their own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With a balance of sweetness and acidity, pickled beets offer a flavorful experience that’s easy to prepare and lasts for weeks.

YouTube Video Credits:
SourAndSweets