Preserved Pickled Beets

Ingredients

For the Beets:

• 2 ½ lbs (1.2kg) fresh beets, washed and trimmed
• 4 cups (1 liter) water

For the Pickling Brine:

• 1 ½ cups (360ml) white vinegar (5% acidity)
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 garlic cloves, sliced
• ½ teaspoon black peppercorns

Equipment:

• 3 to 4 sterilized 16 oz (500ml) glass jars with lids
• Large pot for boiling

Instructions

1. Cook the Beets:

• In a large pot, place the beets and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 40-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
• Drain the beets and rinse with cold water. Once cool enough to handle, peel the skins by rubbing them gently with your hands. Slice or quarter the beets according to your preference.

2. Prepare the Pickling Brine:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add the mustard seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, garlic, and peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Pack the Jars:

• Divide the sliced or quartered beets among the sterilized jars. Pour the hot pickling brine over the beets, ensuring the beets are fully submerged. Leave about ½ inch (1.25 cm) of headspace at the top of each jar.
• Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth and seal tightly with the lids.

4. Process the Jars (Optional for Long-Term Storage):

• If you want to preserve the pickled beets for several months, place the sealed jars in a large pot of boiling water (water bath). Boil for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.
• Remove the jars and let them cool completely. Store in a cool, dark place.

5. Let the Flavors Develop:

• For the best flavor, let the pickled beets rest for at least 48 hours in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, ½ Cup Beets):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 10g

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Beets are packed with betalains, which reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
2. Supports Heart Health: Beets contain nitrates that help lower blood pressure and improve circulation, promoting cardiovascular health.
3. Aids in Detoxification: The antioxidants in beets assist the liver in flushing toxins from the body.
4. Boosts Digestive Health: Beets are high in dietary fiber, supporting regular digestion and gut health.
5. Maintains Electrolyte Balance: The vinegar in the brine provides potassium, helping to maintain fluid balance and muscle function.

Preserved pickled beets are a delicious and nutritious addition to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. With their vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor, they brighten up any meal while offering numerous health benefits. Store them in your pantry for up to a year or enjoy them fresh from the fridge—either way, they’re a versatile and healthy treat!