Description
Old-Fashioned Pickled Beets are a timeless recipe that’s been passed down through generations. These vibrant, ruby-red beets are cooked until tender, then preserved in a sweet and tangy vinegar brine infused with sugar and warm spices. The result is a delicious balance of earthy, sweet, and slightly tart flavors that make pickled beets a favorite side dish, salad topping, or healthy snack.
Not only are pickled beets incredibly flavorful, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients like fiber, folate, potassium, and antioxidants. Beets are well known for supporting heart health, healthy blood pressure, and overall wellness. Whether you’re preparing them for holiday dinners, summer picnics, meal prep, or traditional family gatherings, this easy homemade recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Making your own pickled beets is surprisingly simple and far more flavorful than many store-bought varieties. Plus, you can control the sweetness, acidity, and spices to suit your taste. These beets develop even more flavor after a day or two in the refrigerator, making them an excellent make-ahead recipe.
Ingredients
For the Beets
- 3 pounds fresh beets
- Water for boiling
- Ice water for cooling
Pickling Brine
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 4 whole cloves (optional)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beets
Wash the beets thoroughly, leaving about 1 inch of the stems attached. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 35–45 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Step 2: Peel the Beets
Transfer the cooked beets to a bowl of ice water. Once cool enough to handle, rub off the skins with your hands or a paper towel. Slice or cube the beets as desired.
Step 3: Prepare the Brine
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Fill the Jars
Pack the sliced beets into clean glass jars. Pour the hot pickling brine over the beets, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. The flavor improves after 2–3 days.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
Tips for the Best Pickled Beets
- Choose small to medium beets for the sweetest flavor and tender texture.
- Wear gloves while peeling to avoid staining your hands.
- Let the beets marinate for at least 24 hours for the best taste.
- Add sliced onions to the jars for extra flavor.
- Sterilize jars properly if using a canning method for long-term storage.
Delicious Variations
Honey Pickled Beets
Replace part of the sugar with honey for a richer sweetness.
Spicy Pickled Beets
Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the brine.
Herb-Infused
Include fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary for a savory twist.
Citrus Version
Add strips of orange peel to the brine for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy homemade recipe
- Naturally colorful and nutritious
- Perfect for meal prep
- Great for holiday tables
- Budget-friendly
- Packed with antioxidants
- Delicious as a snack or side dish
- Better than store-bought
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy pickled beets with:
- Grilled chicken
- Roast beef
- Baked salmon
- Garden salads
- Goat cheese or feta
- Crackers and cheese boards
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Potato salad
- Holiday dinners
Storage
Refrigerator pickled beets will keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. If processed using proper water-bath canning techniques, unopened jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry according to safe home-canning guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to peel the beets before cooking?
No. Boiling the beets with the skins on makes them easier to peel afterward.
2. How long do pickled beets last?
Refrigerator pickled beets last up to 3 weeks when stored properly in a sealed container.
3. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. You can decrease the sugar for a less sweet brine, though it will slightly alter the traditional flavor.
4. Are pickled beets healthy?
Yes. They provide fiber, folate, potassium, and antioxidants. Keep in mind that the pickling brine contains added sugar and sodium.
5. Can I use apple cider vinegar?
Absolutely. Apple cider vinegar gives the beets a slightly milder, fruitier flavor.
6. Can I use canned beets?
Yes. Drain the canned beets and pour the hot brine over them. Refrigerate before serving.
7. Why are my pickled beets soft?
Overcooking the beets can make them too soft. Cook just until they are fork-tender.
8. Can I add onions?
Yes. Thinly sliced sweet onions are a classic addition that pairs beautifully with pickled beets.
9. Can I freeze pickled beets?
Freezing is not recommended because it changes the texture and reduces their crispness.
10. What foods pair well with pickled beets?
They complement roasted meats, sandwiches, salads, grain bowls, cheese platters, and traditional holiday meals.
