If you’re looking for a vibrant, tangy, and naturally sweet side that everyone will remember, Pickled Beets are the answer! These ruby-red gems deliver a beautiful burst of color and flavor to your table, whether you serve them in a salad, sandwich, or straight from the jar. The secret lies in the perfect balance of vinegar, sugar, and subtle spices that gently enhance the earthy notes of beets, transforming them into a show-stopping treat. Homemade Pickled Beets are surprisingly easy to make and keep well in the fridge, ready to brighten up any meal in an instant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you – every component plays a role in the delicious symphony that is Pickled Beets. From the earthy sweetness of beets to the zing of vinegar and warmth of subtle spices, each ingredient brings something special to the jar.
- Fresh Beets (2 pounds): The star of the show! Choose firm, unblemished beets for the best texture and flavor.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1 cup): This gives the pickles a gentle tang and extra depth, mellowing out the earthiness of the beets.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps balance the pickling solution, so you don’t overpower the natural flavors.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Just the right amount of sweetness to counterbalance the vinegar and highlight the beets’ natural sugar.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings everything together and subtly sharpens the flavors.
- Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Adds a warm, aromatic note that makes each bite a little more interesting.
- Ground Allspice (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Another layer of spice – skip it for a classic version, or keep it if you love a nuanced pickle.
- Cinnamon Stick (1, optional): For those who enjoy a soft, lingering spice that’s never overpowering.
How to Make Pickled Beets
Step 1: Cook the Beets
Start by placing your trimmed and scrubbed beets in a large pot and covering them completely with water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let the beets simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Be patient – this step draws out all the beets’ natural sweetness and prepares them for pickling perfection.
Step 2: Cool, Peel, and Slice
After draining, give your beets time to cool so you can handle them comfortably. Once they’re cool enough, the skins will slip off easily (a paper towel helps with this). Slice or quarter your beets depending on your serving preference – thick slices for salads, wedges for nibbling, or cubes for snacking – this part is totally up to you!
Step 3: Make the Pickling Liquid
In a medium saucepan, mix together the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, salt, and your chosen spices. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring every so often until you’re sure that all the sugar has dissolved and your kitchen is filled with the inviting aroma of warm spices and vinegar.
Step 4: Combine Beets and Brine
Add your prepared beets to the simmering pickling liquid and let them mingle for about five minutes. This quick simmer helps the beets soak up all those bold, tangy flavors. The color will deepen, and the fragrance will have everyone asking what’s cooking!
Step 5: Pack and Cool
Transfer the hot beets and liquid into sterilized glass jars (leave a little space at the top so the beets are fully submerged). Let the jars cool to room temperature before sealing and popping them in the fridge. The hardest part? Letting them marinate at least 24 hours to soak up every drop of flavor. Trust me, the wait is well worth it!
How to Serve Pickled Beets
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes can really elevate your Pickled Beets. Sprinkle them with fresh dill or chopped chives for a burst of herbal brightness, or add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra richness. A pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving adds a lovely crunch and highlights those tangy-sweet notes.
Side Dishes
Pickled Beets pair beautifully alongside a wide range of dishes. They add a refreshing lift to hearty mains like roasted chicken or grilled salmon, and work magic in grain bowls or atop leafy green salads. Try them nestled next to goat cheese and crusty bread for an easy, elegant appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Pickled Beets the star by layering them in vibrant salads with citrus and leafy greens, stacking them in sandwiches for a pop of color, or tucking them into wraps. For something truly special, arrange them on a pickle plate with olives and tangy cheeses, or chop them finely for a beet-infused relish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pickled Beets are a meal-prepper’s dream – just store them in tightly sealed jars in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to three weeks. Be sure the beets are always submerged in liquid to maintain their color and texture.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze Pickled Beets, as freezing can cause their crisp texture to become a bit soft and watery. Luckily, they keep so well in the fridge, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy every last bite without worrying about freezing.
Reheating
For most uses, there’s no need to reheat Pickled Beets – they’re meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you’re serving them warm in a dish, add them right at the end so their texture and flavor stay bright and perky.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar besides apple cider?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar provides classic, mellow acidity, you can substitute with white vinegar for a sharper tang or experiment with red wine vinegar for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and hue may change slightly.
Why do my beets sometimes lose their vibrant color?
Beets are naturally vivid, but if they’re overcooked or left in open air for too long, their color can fade. Make sure to simmer gently and add them to the pickling liquid while still fresh to lock in that gorgeous hue.
Can I add onions or other vegetables to my Pickled Beets?
Yes, adding sliced onions or even carrots is a fantastic way to boost flavor and variety. The pickling liquid will lend its tang to other veggies, creating a colorful and tasty medley.
Do I need to sterilize my jars?
Sterilizing jars is important for safe storage and best results. Simply wash your jars with hot, soapy water and rinse well before filling them with hot beets and brine. You can also run them through a dishwasher cycle for added insurance.
How long should I wait before enjoying my Pickled Beets?
Patience pays off here! For the most full-bodied flavor, wait at least 24 hours before serving. This gives the beets time to soak up all those delicious spices and tang, but you’ll notice even deeper flavor after a few days.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give these Pickled Beets a try – they’re a colorful, zingy staple that’s always in my fridge. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a batch ready to perk up your salads, snacks, and dinner plates. Dive in and let these vibrant pickles become a favorite at your table too!
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Pickled Beets Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These homemade pickled beets are a flavorful and tangy side dish that complements a variety of meals. Easy to make and perfect for preserving the harvest season’s bounty.
Ingredients
For the Pickled Beets:
- 2 pounds fresh beets (trimmed and scrubbed)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beets: Place the beets in a large pot, cover with water, and simmer until fork-tender. Peel and slice the beets.
- Prepare the Pickling Liquid: In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and optional spices. Simmer until sugar dissolves.
- Pickle the Beets: Add sliced beets to the pickling liquid, simmer briefly, then transfer everything to sterilized jars.
- Chill and Serve: Let the pickled beets cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store pickled beets in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Customize by omitting spices or adding sliced onions for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
