Homemade Pickled Beets Recipe

Homemade Pickled Beets Recipe

Introduction:

Pickled beets are a tangy and sweet treat that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

Whether you enjoy them on their own, in salads, or as a side dish, pickled beets offer a unique taste with a vibrant color.

Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with essential nutrients like fiber, folate, and antioxidants.

This recipe will walk you through the process of making your own homemade pickled beets, a rewarding and simple process that will leave you with jars of this delicious preserve to enjoy all year round.

Ingredients:

2 pounds fresh beets, peeled and sliced

1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

3/4 cup sugar

1 cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon whole cloves

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon salt

Optional: 1 small onion, sliced

Instructions:

Prepare the Beets:

Begin by washing and peeling the beets. Once peeled, slice them into rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. If the beets are large, you can also cut them into smaller chunks.

Cook the Beets:

Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let them simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Pickling Brine:

In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, cinnamon stick, cloves, and mustard seeds. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Pack the Jars:

If you are using onions, place a few slices at the bottom of each sterilized jar. Then, pack the cooked beets into the jars, leaving a little space at the top. You can layer the onions and beets if you like a more intense onion flavor.

Pour the Brine:

Carefully pour the hot pickling brine over the beets in the jars, making sure to cover them completely. Leave about 1/2 inch of space from the top of the jar. Discard the cinnamon stick and whole cloves before sealing the jars.

Seal the Jars:

Wipe the rims of the jars to ensure they are clean, then seal tightly with sterilized lids. If you plan to store the pickled beets for an extended period, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.

Let them Pickle:

Allow the pickled beets to sit for at least 48 hours in the refrigerator before serving to let the flavors fully develop. For the best taste, wait at least a week.

Conclusion:

Homemade pickled beets are a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and earthy flavors that make them a delicious addition to any meal.

Whether you’re topping a salad, serving them as a side, or snacking on them straight from the jar, these pickled beets will elevate your meals with their vibrant color and unique taste.

Easy to prepare and store, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy the flavor of beets year-round while adding a homemade touch to your pantry. Enjoy your tangy creation!