Simple and Delicious Make Easy Refrigerator Pickled Beets Recipe A Great Way to Preserve Your Harvest
If you enjoy pickled vegetables and want to expand your culinary range, why not have a go at creating your own pickled beets? This straightforward recipe calls for only a handful of basic ingredients and a little time for the beets to soak in a flavourful brine.
Beets are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamin C. Pickling them not only preserves their freshness but also adds a zesty kick to their natural sweetness. Plus, pickled beets make for a colorful and tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.
With this refrigerator pickled beets recipe, you can enjoy homemade pickled beets without the need for any special canning equipment. Simply mix, marinate, and refrigerate for a few days to let the flavors develop. So roll up your sleeves, grab some beets, and get ready to pickle your way to a tangy, crunchy delight!
How to Make Pickled Beets at Home
Making pickled beets at home is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these easy steps to enjoy delicious pickled beets:
- Start by washing and peeling fresh beets.
- Cut the beets into slices or cubes, depending on your preference.
- Prepare the pickling liquid by combining vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan.
- Bring the pickling liquid to a boil and stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- Place the beets in clean, sterilized jars and pour the hot pickling liquid over them.
- Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator.
- Allow the pickled beets to marinate for at least 24 hours before enjoying them.
Once ready, your homemade pickled beets will add a flavorful and colorful touch to salads, sandwiches, and more!
Ingredients for Pickled Beets
Here are the ingredients you will need to make delicious pickled beets at home:
Beets | 4-6 medium-size beets |
White vinegar | 1 cup |
Water | 1 cup |
Sugar | 1/2 cup |
Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Whole cloves | 6-8 cloves |
Whole allspice berries | 6-8 berries |
Cinnamon stick | 1 stick |
Steps to Prepare Pickled Beets
To make delicious pickled beets at home, follow these easy steps:
- Prepare the beets by washing them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Trim off the beet greens and root ends, then peel the beets using a vegetable peeler.
- Cut the beets into small, uniform slices or cubes, depending on your preference.
- In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and your choice of spices to create the pickling liquid.
- Bring the pickling liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Place the beet slices or cubes in clean, sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, making sure they are completely covered.
- Secure the lids on the jars and allow them to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Let the pickled beets sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to develop their flavor before enjoying them.
Tips for Perfect Pickled Beets
For the best pickled beets, be sure to use fresh, firm beets that are free of any blemishes or soft spots. It’s essential to thoroughly wash and peel the beets before pickling to remove any dirt or debris.
Flavor Enhancements
Experiment with adding different herbs and spices like dill, cloves, or cinnamon to enhance the flavor of your pickled beets. You can also adjust the sugar and vinegar ratio to suit your taste preferences.
Pro tip: Let your pickled beets sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions for Pickled Beets
Once your delicious pickled beets are ready to eat, there are countless ways to enjoy them. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
1. | Serve as a side dish: Pickled beets make a colorful and flavorful addition to any meal. Pair them with grilled meat or seafood for a tasty accompaniment. |
2. | Add to salads: Slice or cube the pickled beets and toss them into salads for a tangy twist. They bring a unique flavor and vibrant color to your salad bowl. |
3. | Top sandwiches or burgers: Use pickled beets as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, or burgers. They add a zesty kick and a crunchy texture to your favorite sandwich. |
4. | Pair with cheese: Create a beautiful cheese platter with pickled beets as one of the accompaniments. The sweet and tangy flavor of pickled beets complements various types of cheese. |
5. | Enjoy as a snack: Snack on pickled beets straight from the jar for a quick and tasty treat. They are satisfying and delicious on their own. |
Experiment with different ways to incorporate pickled beets into your meals and discover your favorite way to enjoy this flavorful and versatile dish.
Benefits of Pickled Beets
Pickled beets offer a range of health benefits, making them a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.
Nutrient-Rich
Beets are loaded with essential nutrients like folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. Pickling beets preserves these nutrients, making them easily accessible to your body.
Gut Health
The fermentation process involved in pickling creates probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Eating pickled beets can promote a healthy digestive system.