These old-fashioned pickled beets are tender, slightly sweet, perfectly tangy, and even better the next day. Perfect as a side dish, salad topper, or straight from the jar.
Ingredients
For the beets
- 2½ lbs fresh beets (red beets)
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the pickling liquid
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for milder flavor)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup beet cooking water (reserved)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional but classic)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 small bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the beets
Wash the beets well and trim off the stems, leaving about 1 inch attached. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, add 1 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 35–45 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Step 2: Peel and cut
Drain the beets, reserving ½ cup of the cooking liquid. Let beets cool slightly, then rub off the skins (they slide right off). Dice, slice, or cube the beets—your choice.
Step 3: Make the pickling syrup
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, reserved beet water, salt, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
Step 4: Pickle the beets
Add the cut beets to the hot syrup. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring gently so the beets soak up all that flavor.
Step 5: Cool and rest
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a glass bowl or jars. Refrigerate at least 4 hours—overnight is even better.
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Like it less sweet? Reduce sugar to ½ cup
- Like it more tangy? Add 2 extra tablespoons vinegar
- Add sliced onions for a classic deli-style version
- Add orange peel for a subtle citrus twist
Serving Ideas
- Serve chilled as a side dish
- Spoon over green salads or goat cheese
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish
- Eat straight from the bowl (no judgment )
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge
- Keeps well for 7–10 days
- Flavor improves after 24 hours
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweet and vibrant
- Budget-friendly and homemade
- Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients
- No preservatives, just real ingredients