old fashioned pickled beets recipe

old fashioned pickled beets recipe

The Best old fashioned pickled beets recipe

I’ve been making old fashioned pickled beets for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends. The dish has its roots in traditional European cuisine, where pickling was a common method of preserving vegetables.

Beets were particularly popular due to their sweet flavor and high nutritional value. The process of pickling beets involves soaking them in a brine solution made with vinegar, sugar, and spices, which creates a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile.

When I first started making this recipe, I was struck by the simplicity of the ingredients and the technique involved. It’s amazing how something so straightforward can be so delicious and versatile.

Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit my family’s tastes, but the core principles remain the same. This recipe is perfect for everyday eating or special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.

My kids love helping me prepare the beets and mixing up the brine. They’re also great at suggesting new variations on the recipe.

The best part about this dish is that it’s incredibly healthy – beets are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the vinegar helps preserve them without adding extra calories. In short, old fashioned pickled beets are a classic recipe that’s easy to make and fun to share with loved ones.

Old Fashioned Pickled Beets

Old Fashioned Pickled Beets

4.7 from 663 votes

Classic sweet and tangy pickled beets that pair perfectly with salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish. This traditional recipe uses whole spices and apple cider vinegar for a robust flavor that improves with time.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 85 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beets

2 pounds fresh beets, trimmed and scrubbed
Water for boiling

For the Pickling Brine

1 cup apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
1 cup water
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pickling salt
1 cinnamon stick (3 inches)
6 whole cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
1 bay leaf

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the trimmed beets in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the beets are fork-tender and the skins slip off easily.
3Drain the beets in a colander and let them cool until safe to handle, about 10 minutes.
4Slip off the skins using your fingers or a paper towel, then slice the beets into 1/4-inch thick rounds or wedges.
5In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, pickling salt, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, allspice berries, and bay leaf.
6Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3 minutes.
7Place the sliced beets into a clean 8-cup glass jar or divide them among smaller jars.
8Pour the hot brine over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged and leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
9Discard the cinnamon stick and bay leaf, then seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature on the counter for about 1 hour.
10Refrigerate the pickled beets for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Colander
8-cup glass jar or multiple smaller jars with lids
Canning funnel (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 85 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 270mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 17g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For a less sweet brine, reduce sugar to 1/2 cup. The pickled beets will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, process in a water bath canner for 30 minutes.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Pickled Beets Works

This old fashioned pickled beets recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is so versatile. You can store the jars in the refrigerator for up to three months, and they taste even better after a couple of weeks.

To serve, just take them out and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, or eat them cold straight from the jar. I often bring a jar to family gatherings, and they always disappear fast.

They pair well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a topping for burgers. If you have leftovers, you can chop them up and add to a salad or blend into a dressing.

This recipe is always a good idea because it is easy to make, lasts a long time, and pleases almost everyone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Pickled Beets

Q: What is the difference between old fashioned pickled beets and store-bought beets?

Old fashioned pickled beets are made with a traditional brine solution that uses vinegar, sugar, and spices to preserve the beets. Store-bought beets typically use artificial preservatives or high-sugar syrups to extend their shelf life.

Q: Can I use other types of vegetables besides beets?

While beets are the most traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even cabbage. Keep in mind that each vegetable will have its own unique flavor profile and texture.

Q: How do I know if my pickled beets have gone bad?

If your pickled beets start to develop off odors or slimy textures, it’s likely they’ve gone bad. Regularly check on your jarred pickles for any signs of spoilage.

Q: Can I make this recipe in large quantities?

Yes! This recipe is easily scalable for larger batches or special events. Just keep in mind that you’ll need multiple jars or containers to store your homemade pickles.

Q: Are there any health benefits associated with eating pickled beets?

Pickled beets are rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Additionally, the vinegar used in this recipe has antimicrobial properties that can help support gut health.

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