Pickled Beets Recipe
If you are searching for a vibrant, tangy, and delightfully easy way to elevate your meals, this Pickled Beets Recipe is an absolute must-try. The balance of sweet, tart, and warming spices transforms humble beets into a crave-worthy treat that pairs beautifully with everything from salads to sandwiches. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or simply to brighten up your weekly menu, these pickled beets bring a splash of color and a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pickled Beets Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a critical role in building those unforgettable flavors, textures, and that gorgeous reddish hue. Every component works harmoniously to create a perfectly balanced batch of pickles that are both rustic and refined.
- 2 pounds fresh beets, tops removed and scrubbed: Freshness is key here to get tender, sweet beets with vibrant color.
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar: The heart of the pickling brine that provides that signature tangy punch.
- 1 cup water: Balances the acidity of the vinegar to make the brine just right.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds mellow sweetness that perfectly offsets the vinegar’s tartness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps preserve the beets.
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns: Adds a hint of subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds: Gives a delicate, nutty spiciness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Brings a subtle blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove-like flavor.
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional): Adds a cozy warmth that enhances the pickling spices beautifully.
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional): For an extra crunch and sharp tang that complements the beets perfectly.
How to Make Pickled Beets Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beets
Start by placing the scrubbed beets in a large pot and cover them generously with water. Bring the water to a roaring boil and cook the beets for 30 to 40 minutes until they are fork-tender. This tenderness is crucial because it allows the flavors of the pickling liquid to permeate the beets later on. Once cooked, drain the beets and let them cool until comfortably handled.
Step 2: Peel and Slice
Peeling the beets is wonderfully satisfying—simply rub off the skins with your hands or a paper towel. The skin should come right off with minimal fuss. Then slice the beets into 1/4-inch rounds or wedges, depending on your preferred shape. These slices will soak up the pickling brine and hold their texture perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Brine
In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, cloves, allspice, and the cinnamon stick if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. This hot brine is going to infuse the beets with that classic tangy-sweet-spicy kick we all love in pickles.
Step 4: Jar the Beets
Layer the sliced beets and red onion (if using) into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot brine over the beets until they are fully submerged. This step is essential to ensure even pickling and flavor distribution. Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it up and transferring it to the refrigerator.
Step 5: Wait and Enjoy
The hardest part here is the wait—allow your pickled beets to chill and marinate for at least 24 hours to ensure the flavors deepen and marry beautifully. After that, they’re ready to brighten your plate with their vivid color and addictive flavor.
How to Serve Pickled Beets Recipe
Garnishes
Pickled beets are incredibly versatile as a garnish. Adding a few slices atop a salad or alongside charcuterie boards adds a pop of sunshine-red color and a tangy contrast that livens up any dish visually and flavor-wise. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme sprinkled on top can elevate the presentation and introduce fresh, herbal notes.
Side Dishes
Pairing your pickled beets as a side dish is effortless and rewarding. They complement roasted meats, grilled fish, and vegetarian mains perfectly. Their sweetness and acidity help cut through richer foods while adding moisture and brightness. Think about serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta for an exciting flavor contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get a little fancy? Consider turning your pickled beets into a layered salad parfait with goat cheese and toasted nuts, or dice them finely to mix into grain bowls or grain salads for a burst of color and zest. They even make a fantastic topping for avocado toast, adding a vibrant twist to your breakfast or brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once prepared, pickled beets keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Store them in an airtight glass jar to preserve maximum freshness and maintain their wonderful texture. Over time, the flavors will deepen, making later servings even more delicious.
Freezing
Freezing pickled beets is generally not recommended, as the texture can turn mushy when thawed. Their crispness is a big part of their charm, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh from the fridge while their snap is intact.
Reheating
Pickled beets are best served chilled or at room temperature. However, if you want to warm them up slightly, gently heat a small amount on the stove or in the microwave just long enough to take the chill off. Avoid overheating, as that can dull their fresh, piquant flavor.
FAQs
How long do pickled beets last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, pickled beets can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant taste for quite some time.
Can I use golden beets instead of red beets?
Absolutely! Golden beets offer a lovely yellow color and a slightly sweeter flavor, giving your Pickled Beets Recipe a fun and colorful twist.
Do I need to peel the beets before pickling?
Yes, peeling after cooking is recommended because the skins can be tough and bitter. The skins rub off easily once the beets are tender, resulting in a smoother texture and better flavor absorption.
Can I add fresh herbs to the pickling brine?
Yes, adding herbs like dill or thyme can infuse the pickled beets with extra layers of flavor. Just add them to the jar before pouring in the hot brine or toss them in after pickling.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Definitely! This Pickled Beets Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, perfect for a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing any flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about making your own Pickled Beets Recipe at home, from the simple ingredients to the slow build-up of cozy, tangy flavors. It’s a recipe that invites you to savor the process and enjoy a delightful, colorful addition to your kitchen repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how these pickled beets can brighten meals, snacks, and gatherings with such joyful ease.
Print
Pickled Beets Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus 24 hours pickling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Pickled Beets recipe offers tangy, sweet, and spiced beet slices preserved in a flavorful vinegar brine. It’s a classic American side dish made by boiling fresh beets until tender, then marinating them in a hot mixture of apple cider vinegar, sugar, spices, and optional red onion. Perfect for adding a vibrant and zesty kick to any meal.
Ingredients
Beets
- 2 pounds fresh beets, tops removed and scrubbed
Pickling Brine
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
Additional
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beets: Place the cleaned beets in a large pot and cover completely with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until the beets are fork-tender.
- Peel and Slice: Drain the beets and let them cool enough to handle. Rub the skins off using your hands or a paper towel. Slice the peeled beets into 1/4-inch rounds or wedges according to preference.
- Prepare the Brine: In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, ground cloves, ground allspice, and the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Assemble the Pickles: In a clean glass jar or container, layer the sliced beets and optional thinly sliced red onion.
- Add the Brine: Pour the hot brine over the beets and onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to fully develop.
Notes
- Pickled beets can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
- For a colorful variation, try using golden beets instead of red beets.
- Add fresh herbs such as dill or thyme to the jar for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
