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Pickled Beets

Pickled Beets
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Easy Pickled Beets are a vibrant and tangy side dish made with simple pantry staples. This quick and beginner-friendly recipe results in naturally sweet and mildly spiced beets that add color and brightness to any meal or snack. Perfectly crisp with a balanced sweet and sour flavor, these pickled beets keep well in the refrigerator for weeks and are versatile enough for many serving ideas.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–5 medium fresh beets
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Optional Spices

  • 4–5 whole cloves or 1 teaspoon peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cook the Beets: Trim the beet greens and wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place the beets in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let cool slightly, then peel the skins off; they should slip off easily with your fingers or a paper towel.
  2. Slice the Beets: Once peeled, slice the beets into your preferred shape—rounds, wedges, or cubes. Keep the slices uniform for even pickling.
  3. Make the Pickling Brine: In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil to dissolve the sugar and salt completely. If using, add whole cloves or peppercorns now to infuse the brine.
  4. Pack the Beets and Pour Brine: Place the sliced beets into clean, sterilized glass jars. Carefully pour the hot brine over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave a small gap at the top for expansion. Seal the jars tightly.
  5. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. The pickled beets will develop their flavor over 24 hours but taste best after a couple of days. Keep refrigerated and enjoy within 2-3 weeks.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm beets for the best texture and flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the beets—they should be tender but still hold their shape.
  • Sterilize jars to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
  • Customize the brine by adjusting sugar and vinegar ratios to your liking.
  • The longer the pickled beets marinate, the more flavorful they become.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled beets, easy pickled beets, pickled vegetables, side dish, tangy beets

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/pickled-beets/