These homemade pickled beets are a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness and earthy flavor of fresh beets. Prepared with vinegar, a touch of sugar, whole cloves, allspice, and a pinch of salt, this simple recipe creates a flavorful side dish that pairs well with salads, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and everyday meals.
With a straightforward preparation process and easy-to-find ingredients, these pickled beets are perfect for anyone looking to add more color and variety to their meals.
Ingredients
- 8 medium fresh beets
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1-1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
- 1-1/2 teaspoons whole allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Beets
Scrub the beets thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Trim the tops, leaving about 1 inch of the stems attached to help preserve their color during cooking.
Place the beets in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover the pot and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the beets.
Step 2: Cool, Peel, and Slice
Remove the cooked beets from the water and allow them to cool until they are comfortable to handle. Peel away the skins, then slice the beets into even rounds or your preferred shape.
Place the sliced beets in a bowl and set them aside while you prepare the pickling mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Pickling Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, whole cloves, whole allspice, and salt. Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat as needed and let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma and the sugar to dissolve.
Step 4: Combine and Refrigerate
Pour the warm pickling mixture over the sliced beets, making sure the slices are coated evenly. Allow the mixture to
