
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Homemade Pickled Beets — a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and earthy. Great as a side, in salads, or as a snack straight from the jar!
🥄 Homemade Pickled Beets Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
For the beets:
- 2 pounds (900g) fresh beets (about 4–6 medium)
- Water, for boiling
- Pinch of salt
For the pickling brine:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black peppercorns
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp coriander seeds (optional)
- 2–3 whole cloves (optional, for warmth)
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
🔪 Instructions:
1. PREPARE THE BEETS:
- Wash the beets thoroughly. Do not peel — just trim the leaves, leaving 1 inch of stem to prevent bleeding.
- Place beets in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender (30–45 minutes depending on size).
- Drain and let cool slightly. Rub off skins using your hands or a paper towel. Trim ends.
- Slice, dice, or wedge the beets to your liking.
2. MAKE THE PICKLING BRINE:
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2–3 minutes until sugar and salt dissolve.
- Remove from heat.
3. JAR THE BEETS:
- Pack the sliced beets into sterilized jars (pint-sized or quart jars work well).
- Pour the hot brine over the beets, leaving ½ inch of headspace.
- Tap jars gently or use a clean utensil to remove air bubbles.
- Wipe rims, seal with lids.
❄️ Storage:
- Quick pickles: Let cool, then refrigerate. Flavor improves after 24–48 hours. Lasts 3–4 weeks in the fridge.
- For canning (optional): Process jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes to seal. Let cool. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.
✅ Tips:
- Golden beets work too, but the brine color will be lighter.
- Add sliced onions or hard-boiled eggs to the jar for variation.
- Reduce sugar if you prefer a more tangy pickle.
Would you like a spicy variation or small-batch version next?