Why Make Pickled Beets at Home?
Store-bought pickled beets can be convenient, but homemade versions offer better flavor and fewer preservatives. When you pickle beets yourself, you can adjust the sweetness, vinegar strength, and spices to suit your taste. Plus, the vibrant color and crisp texture make them as beautiful as they are tasty.
Choosing the Right Beets
Fresh, firm beets work best for pickling. Smaller to medium-sized beets tend to be sweeter and more tender. Red beets are the classic choice, but golden beets can also be used for a milder flavor and lighter color.
Homemade Pickled Beets Recipe
Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh beets
1 cup white or apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
Optional spices: cloves, cinnamon stick, peppercorns, or bay leaf
Instructions:
Wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the stems.
Boil the beets in water until tender (about 30–40 minutes).
Let them cool, then peel and slice or cube as desired.
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Pack the beets into clean jars and pour the hot pickling liquid over them, covering completely.
Let cool, seal, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating.
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