Get ready to transport your taste buds to a world of tangy, sweet, and utterly irresistible pickled beets that have been passed down through generations! Beth's Grandmother's Pickled Beets recipe is more than just a side dish—it's a culinary time machine that captures the essence of traditional American home cooking. Imagine opening a jar of these ruby-red delights and being instantly surrounded by the warm, comforting memories of family gatherings and homemade goodness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked beets, sliced
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the beets by washing them thoroughly and trimming off the tops and roots.
- Boil the beets in a large pot of water until they are tender when pierced with a fork, typically 30-45 minutes depending on their size.
- Once cooked, drain the beets and allow them to cool slightly until they can be handled safely.
- Carefully peel the beets by rubbing the skin off with your hands or using a small paring knife. The skin should slip off easily after cooking.
- Slice the peeled beets into uniform, thin rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a separate saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and whole cloves. Bring this pickling liquid to a boil, stirring to ensure the sugar completely dissolves.
- Place the sliced beets into clean, sterilized glass jars.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.
- Let the pickled beets marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm beets with smooth skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Wear disposable gloves while peeling to prevent staining your hands.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a few peppercorns to the pickling liquid.
- Ensure your jars are completely sterilized to prevent any bacterial growth.
- The longer the beets marinate, the more intense the flavor becomes—patience is key!
- These pickled beets can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when properly stored.
- Serve chilled as a tangy side dish or add to salads for an extra flavor punch.
- If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar quantity slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
