Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling & Pickling Time: 24 hours
- Total Time: 24 hours 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board and knife
- Canning jars with lids
- Tongs
- Peeler
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh beets
- 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon whole peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Beets: Choose small-to-medium beets; they cook faster and have a sweeter flavor.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds subtle fruitiness, while white vinegar gives a sharper tang.
- Sweetness: Adjust sugar to taste — reduce for a tangier pickle or add extra for mild sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beets
Trim beet tops, leaving about 1 inch of stem to prevent bleeding. Place beets in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Simmer 25–30 minutes until tender. Drain and cool slightly.
Step 2: Peel and Slice
Once cool, slip off the skins using your fingers or a paper towel. Slice beets into rounds or wedges as desired.
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
https://schemecontinuingwinning.com/wnib1zsr?key=45ab04dbcac38f2dccee395819b9ef5c
Step 4: Pack the Jars
Divide beets among clean jars. Pour hot brine over the beets, leaving ½ inch of space at the top. Add a cinnamon stick if using.
Step 5: Seal and Store
Seal jars tightly. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 24 hours before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per ½ cup)
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Tips & Variations
- Longer Storage: For pantry storage, process sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes.
- Spiced Version: Add cloves or star anise for a festive flavor.
- Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for sugar.
- Serving Ideas: Serve chilled with goat cheese, use in salads, or pair with grilled meats.
