Beet It Classic Pickled Beets Easier Than You Think
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of history with a tasty kick? Ever wondered how to make the best pickled beets recipe at home? Well, pull up a chair, and let's dive into this glorious beetroot adventure! It's easier than you think, promise.
Quick Hook
Remember Grandma's pantry, always brimming with colourful jars? I'm talking proper old fashioned pickled beets recipe . These aren't just beets; they're a flavor explosion! Get ready for sweet, tangy, earthy goodness in every bite.
Brief Overview
Pickled beets, or pickled beetroot recipe as some call them, have roots deep in European culinary traditions. They're easy to whip up in about an hour and a quarter, but the real magic happens as they pickle.
This easy pickled beets recipe yields four beautiful jars, perfect for sharing or stashing away for future cravings.
Main Benefits
Honestly, homemade pickled beets are a nutritional powerhouse. Beets are packed with antioxidants, and these little gems are fantastic for boosting your health.
Serve them at a summer BBQ or alongside a hearty ploughman's lunch. What makes this pickled beets recipe with vinegar special? It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, taking your taste buds on a wild ride.
Now, let's talk ingredients, shall we? The heart of our recipe lies in 2 pounds of beets. They should be scrubbed until squeaky clean.
The brine's the secret sauce, and is made up of: 1 cup of distilled white vinegar; 1 cup of water; ½ cup of sugar; 2 teaspoons of salt; a teaspoon of peppercorns; two bay leaves; ½ a teaspoon of mustard seeds; and a ¼ of a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
I know, I know, it sounds like a lot. But trust me, it all comes together beautifully.
For kit, you'll need a pot, knife, and four pint jars. Sterilize those jars, that's important. You don't want any nasties spoiling the batch.
I once forgot to sterilize, and let me tell you, it wasn't pretty. Ever tried making canned pickled beets recipe ? This is the fresher, tastier version.
Don't be shy about experimenting. Try throwing in a cinnamon stick, or swapping out the white vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
Oh my gosh! You can use a honey instead of sugar. Making this beetroot pickle recipe can be really fun if you experiment.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Right, let's chat about what you'll need for this pickled beets recipe . Honestly, it's a doddle, and you probably have most of it already!
Main Ingredients: The Beet Goes On
Alright, here’s the lowdown on what to grab, and quality is key!.
- Beets: 2 pounds (900g) medium beets. You'll want them firm, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Think of the beets as your new best friend, haha.
- White Vinegar: 1 cup (240ml). Go for distilled white vinegar; pickled beets with vinegar just taste better, it helps to cut through the sweetness.
- Water: 1 cup (240ml). Tap water is absolutely fine.
- Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g). Granulated sugar.
- Salt: 2 teaspoons (10g). Kosher salt works a treat!
- Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Whole black peppercorns add a nice kick.
- Bay Leaves: 2 of them.
- Mustard Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml). Optional. But honestly, they give it that extra oomph .
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml). Also optional.
Oh my gosh, these best pickled beets recipe are really one of my favorites things to cook!!
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Boost!
It's all about creating a taste explosion.
Spice it Up: The peppercorns and bay leaves are a must. They give a classic, old fashioned pickled beets recipe a lift.
Flavor enhancers: Mustard seeds offer a delightful tang, while red pepper flakes provide a gentle heat. Experiment a bit! Substitutions: Don't have mustard seeds? No worries! A pinch of mustard powder will do the trick.
Equipment Needed: No Fancy Kit Needed
You do not need expensive equipment, honestly.
- Large Pot: For boiling the beets.
- Sharp Knife: Gotta chop those beets!
- Cutting Board: Obvs.
- Sterilized Jars: 4 (1-pint/500ml) is your target. Cleanliness is crucial, mate.
- Jar Lifter/Tongs: Optional, but it makes life easier.
You can easily find canned pickled beets recipe but trust me, homemade pickled beets are way better!. It can even be used as part of a pickled beet salad recipe , is extremely versatile.
So, you've got your ingredients and equipment. Next, we're going to learn how to pickle beets . Let's get started!
Beet It! Classic Pickled Beets (Easier Than You Think)
Fancy making some proper homemade pickled beets ? Honestly, it's easier than you think! Forget the shop bought stuff. This pickled beetroot recipe is banging and adds a delightful zing to any meal.
They're amazing with cheese, in salads, or just straight from the jar. I'm talking old fashioned pickled beets. They are a good source of natural nitrates, which can help lower blood pressure and boost athletic performance.
So tasty and good for you too.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first, get organized! Scrub 2 pounds of beets well. Trim the tops, leaving about an inch of stem.
This stops the colour from running out. Measure out your 1 cup of vinegar , 1 cup of water , 1/2 cup of sugar , 2 teaspoons of salt , 1 teaspoon of peppercorns , 2 bay leaves , 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of a kick).
Most importantly, sterilize your four 1-pint jars . A quick boil does the trick, or a run through the dishwasher.
step-by-step: How to Pickle Beets Like a Boss
- Pop the beets in a big pot and cover them with cold water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 40- 50 minutes . Check with a fork, they should be tender.
- Drain the beets and rinse with cold water until you can handle them.
- Peel the skins off (rubber gloves are your friends here, trust me!). Then chop the beets into slices, wedges, or cubes.
- In a saucepan, mix vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and chilli flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes .
- Pack the beets into your sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top.
- Pour the hot brine over the beets, again leaving a bit of space. Make sure to remove any air bubbles.
- Seal those jars! Let them cool completely. You should hear a pop as they seal.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Pickle Game
To get the best pickled beets recipe , avoid overcooking the beets! Mushy beets are a no-no. I once made canned pickled beets recipe , and they were a complete disaster! Aim for slightly firm.
For a pickled beet salad recipe , try adding some walnuts and goats cheese for a flavour sensation. It's a game changer!
If you want to prepare in advance, you can cook the beets a day before. But, honestly, these easy pickled beets recipe are best left to sit for at least 24 hours before tucking in.
This lets the flavours really develop. If your looking for pickled beets with vinegar look no further because this recipe it's the best!.
Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Recipe Notes: Get the Most Out of Your Pickled Beets Recipe
Right, so you're about to whip up a batch of homemade pickled beets . Ace! Here are a few extra bits and bobs to make sure yours are absolutely brilliant.
Think of these as my little nuggets of wisdom, learned from many a beetroot stained kitchen escapade. Honestly, I've made enough pickled beetroot recipe batches to sink a small ship.
Ace Serving Suggestions
Fancy plating your pickled beet salad recipe like a pro? Don't just whack 'em in a bowl. Think about colour! A swirl of goat cheese or a scattering of toasted walnuts really lifts the look.
A classic move is pairing your old fashioned pickled beets recipe with a hearty ploughman’s lunch. Think crusty bread, mature cheddar, and maybe a cheeky bit of ham.
Or, how about a summery salad with some peppery rocket and a drizzle of balsamic? Seriously, the possibilities are endless.
If your trying to make canned pickled beets recipe consider doing it during the holidays for special occasion.
Storage Tips: Keep Those Beets Fresh
So, you've got a load of easy pickled beets recipe and want to know how to keep them tip-top? Once cooled and properly sealed (that satisfying "pop" sound!), these beauties can hang out in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year.
Give them at least 24 hours in the fridge to let those flavours really mingle before tucking in. If a jar doesn't seal properly (the lid flexes when you press it), no worries! Just pop it in the fridge and use those beets within a few weeks.
Reheating isn't really a thing with pickled beets they’re best served cold or at room temperature.
Variation Station: Let's Get Creative with How to Pickle Beets
Fancy a little twist on your pickled beets with vinegar ? Go for it! For a seasonal swap, think about adding a pinch of cinnamon or some star anise to the brine during the winter months.
Or, if you're watching the sugar, try using honey or maple syrup instead. They bring a lovely depth of flavour.
To adapt for dietary needs a low sugar version is to reduce the amount of the sugar added in the recipe.
So you can enjoy your best pickled beets recipe without the guilt.
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Let's keep it real: I'm no nutritionist. But basically, beets are pretty good for you. They're packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Plus, that vibrant red colour? That’s betalain, which is thought to have anti inflammatory properties. One serving of these beetroot pickle recipe gives you roughly 120 calories, 2g of protein, and 28g of carbohydrates.
Just a rough guide, mind you!
So there you have it! A few extra thoughts to get you started with your pickled beets recipe . Honestly, making these at home is so much better than buying the jarred stuff.
So get in the kitchen and give it a go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked beets for this pickled beets recipe?
While it's best to cook the beets yourself for the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-cooked beets in a pinch. Just be mindful that they may be softer than freshly cooked beets. Reduce the simmering time of the brine slightly to avoid making them too mushy when you pour it over them.
How long do pickled beets last?
Properly sealed and processed pickled beets can last up to a year in a cool, dark place think pantry, not airing cupboard! Once opened, they should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few weeks.
If you're not planning on canning them, you can still make this recipe and keep them in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks perfect for a quick salad addition!
What if I don't have distilled white vinegar?
Distilled white vinegar is preferred for its neutral flavor, which allows the beet's taste to shine through. However, if you don't have any on hand, you can substitute apple cider vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, adding a bit of fruity tang, but it will still create a delicious batch of pickled beets.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickled beets?
Absolutely! This pickled beets recipe is very customisable. Taste the brine before pouring it over the beets. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the amount of sugar by a tablespoon or two.
If you like a sweeter pickle, you can add a bit more sugar, honey, or even maple syrup to taste - just like adding sugar to your morning cuppa!
Why do I need to leave some stem on the beets when cooking them?
Leaving about an inch of stem attached to the beets while cooking is crucial to prevent color bleeding. If you cut the stems off too close to the beet, the vibrant red pigment will leach out into the cooking water, resulting in paler beets and a less intense flavor.
Think of it like keeping a cork in a bottle of good plonk!
My pickled beets didn't seal, now what?
Bother! If your pickled beets didn't seal properly, don't fret, just pop them in the fridge. Unsealed jars need to be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 weeks. You can still enjoy them, they just won't have that long shelf life. Better get cracking on that ploughman's lunch then!
Beet It Classic Pickled Beets Easier Than You Th
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 2g |