Step 1: Prepare the Beets
Wash the beets thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt. Trim the tops and roots, leaving a small portion of the stem if desired.
Place the whole beets in a large pot and cover them with water.
Step 2: Cook the Beets
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork. Depending on their size, this usually takes about 30–50 minutes.
Remove the cooked beets from the water and allow them to cool enough to handle.
Step 3: Peel and Slice
Once cooled, gently rub the skins off with your fingers or use a small knife.
Cut the beets into slices, wedges, or bite-sized pieces. Set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Pickling Liquid
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
Add the black peppercorns, mustard seeds, garlic, onion, and bay leaves if using.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Step 5: Combine the Beets and Pickling Liquid
Place the sliced beets into a clean glass jar or container.
Carefully pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets until they are completely covered.
Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature before covering the container.
Step 6: Refrigerate
Seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator.
For the best flavor, let the beets marinate for at least 24 hours. The flavor becomes deeper and more balanced after a couple of days.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pickled beets chilled as a side dish, add them to salads, or enjoy them as a tangy snack.
They pair especially well with boiled eggs, leafy green salads, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats.
Helpful Tips
For a sweeter pickle, you can add a little more sugar. If you prefer a sharper, more tangy flavor, slightly reduce the sugar.
You can also add fresh dill, a small cinnamon stick, cloves, or extra black peppercorns to create different flavor variations.
Always use clean containers and keep refrigerator-pickled beets refrigerated. This recipe is intended as a refrigerator pickle, not a shelf-stable canning recipe.
Pickled beets are an easy way to turn a batch of fresh beets into a flavorful addition to everyday meals. Their bright color, sweet-tart taste, and tender texture make them a great homemade side dish that can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
See more on the next page
