Pickled Beets Recipe

Pickled beets are a tangy and flavorful addition to salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own as a zesty snack. This step-by-step guide will help you create delicious pickled beets that are perfect for preserving and enjoying throughout the year.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh beets, preferably small to medium-sized
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled
• Optional: Fresh herbs like dill or bay leaves for added flavor

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot for boiling
• Saucepan
• Sterilized canning jars with lids

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beets

1. Trim and Wash Beets: Trim off the beet greens, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to prevent bleeding during cooking. Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt.
2. Boil the Beets: Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Cool and Peel: Once cooked, drain the beets and let them cool until they are comfortable to handle. Peel off the skins using your fingers or a paring knife. Trim off the stems and root ends.
4. Slice or Cube: Slice the beets into rounds or cube them, depending on your preference. Place the prepared beets aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pickling Liquid

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of whole peppercorns. Optionally, add 2-3 cloves of peeled garlic and any fresh herbs you prefer.
2. Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Pack the Jars

1. Sterilize Jars: Meanwhile, sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher cycle.
2. Layer Beets and Liquid: Pack the sliced or cubed beets tightly into the sterilized jars. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.

Step 4: Seal and Store

1. Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tap the jars on the counter to remove any air bubbles. If necessary, use a clean utensil to release trapped air.
2. Seal Jars: Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to ensure they are free of any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
3. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool to room temperature on a towel-lined countertop. Once cooled, label the jars with the date and store them in the refrigerator. The pickled beets will improve in flavor after a few days and can be kept refrigerated for up to 1 month.

Tips for Perfect Pickled Beets

• Choosing Beets: Select fresh, firm beets without bruises or soft spots for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the pickling liquid by varying the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.
• Enhancing Flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices like dill, bay leaves, or cloves to customize the flavor of your pickled beets.

FAQ

Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned beets if you prefer. Drain and rinse them well before packing into jars and proceeding with the pickling liquid.

How long do pickled beets need to sit before eating?

For best flavor, allow the pickled beets to sit in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 days before eating. They will continue to improve in flavor over time.

Can I process pickled beets for longer storage?

Yes, you can process the jars in a water bath canner for 10-15 minutes (adjust for altitude) to seal them for longer storage at room temperature. Follow safe canning practices for proper processing.

Conclusion

This easy pickled beets recipe is a wonderful way to preserve the flavors of fresh beets with a tangy and sweet pickling liquid. Enjoy these pickled beets as a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a flavorful snack on their own. Share them with friends and family or keep them stocked in your pantry for whenever you crave a delicious treat!