Pickled beets are a vibrant addition to any meal, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with various dishes. This simple recipe transforms fresh beets into a delightful condiment that can elevate salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on their own. Get ready to discover the easy steps to create your own batch of these delicious pickled beets!
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized beets
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with cooking time taking an additional 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of pickled beets (about ½ cup) contains approximately 50 calories, 0g fat, 13g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 2g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by washing the beets thoroughly under cold water.
- Trim the ends of the beets and place them in a pot.
- Cover the beets with water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until tender.
- Once cooked, drain the beets and let them cool slightly.
- Peel the skin off the beets using your fingers or a paper towel.
- Slice the beets into wedges or rounds as desired.
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
- Add cloves, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sliced beets in a jar.
- Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a milder taste. Additionally, honey can be used instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
Pickled beets can be served as a vibrant side dish, added to salads for a burst of color, or used as a topping for sandwiches and burgers. They also pair well with goat cheese and nuts.
Storage and Reheating
Store pickled beets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can be enjoyed cold straight from the jar or added to dishes without reheating. Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the peeling step; the skin can be tough.
- Ensure the beets are cooked until tender for best flavor.
- Don’t rush the pickling process; let them sit for at least a day.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Measure ingredients accurately to maintain balance.
Helpful Tips
- Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands with beet juice.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or mustard seeds for unique flavors.
- Try adding sliced onions for an extra zing.
- Use a clean jar to prevent spoilage.
FAQs
How long do pickled beets last?
Pickled beets can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. For best flavor, consume them within this timeframe.
Can I use canned beets?
Yes, you can use canned beets if you’re short on time. Just drain them well and follow the pickling process for flavor enhancement.
What dishes can I use pickled beets in?
Pickled beets are versatile; they can be added to salads, served alongside meats, or included in grain bowls for added flavor and color.
Can I pickle other vegetables with beets?
Absolutely! You can pickle carrots, onions, or radishes alongside beets for a colorful and flavorful mix.
Are pickled beets healthy?
Yes, pickled beets are low in calories and high in nutrients. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Conclusion
Pickled beets are not only a vibrant addition to your meals but also a delicious way to preserve the fresh flavors of beets. With this easy recipe, you can create a tangy, sweet condiment that enhances a variety of dishes. Enjoy them in salads, sandwiches, or straight from the jar for a delightful taste of summer all year round.
Pickled Beets
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized beets
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Wash the beets thoroughly under cold water.
- Trim the ends of the beets and place them in a pot.
- Cover the beets with water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until tender.
- Drain the beets and let them cool slightly.
- Peel the skin off the beets using your fingers or a paper towel.
- Slice the beets into wedges or rounds as desired.
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
- Add cloves, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sliced beets in a jar.
- Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.
Nutrition
