How to Make Pickled Beets

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Beets are one of my favorite vegetables, and pickling them only enhances their natural sweetness and earthy flavor. Their bold color and tangy-sweet taste make pickled beets a wonderful addition to so many dishes—whether tossed in a salad, layered in a sandwich, or served as a side dish.

Historically, pickling beets was a simple and effective way to preserve this nutrient-rich vegetable for the months ahead, making it a year-round staple. Unlike traditional canning methods, this refrigerator pickled beets recipe is quick and easy.

With just a few simple ingredients—beets, sugar, salt, and red wine vinegar—you can create a batch of flavorful pickled beets in no time. It’s a must-make recipe in my kitchen, especially when my garden is overflowing with fresh beets. Once you try it, you’ll discover a new appreciation for this vibrant and nutritious veggie. Here’s how to make your own pickled beets at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pickled beets are delicious! – point blank, period.
• Pickled beets have a high concentration of antioxidants.
• Beets are rich in betalains, a unique pigment group that gives the vegetable its vibrant color. These betalains have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
• Additionally, pickled beets are a good source of nitrates, which can help improve cardiovascular health by promoting healthy blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
• Pickled beets are an excellent dietary fiber source.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ lbs beets
• ½ large red onion
• 1 ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp whole mustard seed
• ½ tsp celery seed
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Makes: 2 pint jars

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Pickling Time: 5 days | Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Guide on Refrigerator Pickled Beets Recipe

1. Peel the beets and trim off the tops. Cut each beet into 8-10 wedges, depending on their size.

1. Thinly slice the onion into quarter circles.

1. In clean glass jars, layer the beets and onions.

1. Evenly distribute the mustard seed, celery seed, and red pepper flakes between the jars.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, ¾ cup (177ml) of water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Pour the hot liquid over the beets in each jar, ensuring the beets are fully covered. Leave at least ½ inch (12mm) of space at the top of the jar.

1. Seal the jars tightly with their lids and place them in the refrigerator. Allow the beets to pickle for at least 5 days before serving.

The pickled beets will keep in the fridge for up to one month, and their flavor will become stronger over time.

Variations for Pickled Beets

One popular way to enjoy pickled beets is by incorporating them into salads. Their bright color and tangy flavor can elevate a simple green salad, while their crunchy texture can provide a delightful contrast to softer ingredients.

Try pairing pickled beets with greens, nuts, cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette for a truly gourmet salad experience.

Pickled beets can also be a fantastic addition to sandwiches and burgers. Layer them onto your favorite deli meats, cheeses, or even veggie-based patties for a flavorful twist on a classic sandwich.

Pickled beets can also be used to add a pop of color and flavor to a variety of other dishes. Incorporate them into grain bowls, tacos, or even atop a pizza for a burst of tangy goodness.

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Frequently asked questions about pickled beets.

How long do pickled beets last?

Properly stored pickled beets can last for several months in the refrigerator. The pickled beets can be kept in the fridge for up to one month, and their flavor will become stronger over time.

Can I “can” pickled beets?

Pickled beets are perfect for canning. Canning will help to extend their shelf life even further. For canning, follow proper water bath canning procedures to ensure the jars are sealed and the beets are safely preserved.

Can I freeze pickled beets?

Yes, you can freeze pickled beets to extend their shelf life even further. Frozen pickled beets can last up to 12 months when stored in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Storing Pickled Beets

Once the beets have been fully pickled and cooled, transfer them to a clean, sterilized jar or airtight container. Ensure the beets are completely submerged in the pickling liquid, which helps prevent spoilage. Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator, where the pickled beets can be stored for 6-12 months.

For longer-term preservation, you can also consider canning the pickled beets. This method involves sealing the beets and pickling liquid in sterilized jars and processing them in a water bath canner. Properly canned pickled beets can be stored at room temperature for up to 18 months, making them a convenient and shelf-stable option.

Another way to extend the lifespan of your pickled beets is by freezing them. Simply transfer the pickled beets, along with the pickling liquid, to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pickled beets can be stored for up to 12 months, maintaining their vibrant color and tangy flavor.