Introduction
Get ready to elevate your meals with the vibrant zest of quick pickled beets! These little gems are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Their tangy flavor and deep red color make them the perfect sidekick to any dish. Whether you’re tossing them in a salad, serving them with grilled proteins, or enjoying them straight from the jar, these quick pickled beets will add a delicious twist to your dining experience. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to create this tangy delight!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 3 medium beets, red and sassy
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar (sweetness meets tang)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 bay leaf (for that sophisticated touch)
- Optional: Spices of your choice (think peppercorns, cloves, or coriander seeds)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 2 cups of pickled beets
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the preparation steps to concoct this pickling magic!
1. Beet Party Prep: Wash those beets until they’re squeaky clean. Boil ‘em up in a pot until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Let them cool, then peel, slice, and get them ready to mingle.
2. Pickling Potion: In a saucepan, combine water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and your bay leaf. Toss in any extra spices that tickle your fancy. Bring this mix to a gentle boil until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Jar of Joy: Layer your sliced beets in a sterilized jar, pour that pickling potion over them until they’re fully submerged. Seal the deal with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Patience is Key: Let them chill in the fridge for at least 24 hours. Trust us, it’s worth the wait. The longer they sit, the bolder they become!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 50 kcal
Carbs: 12g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g
Serve them on salads, alongside your favorite protein, or just munch on them solo. These pickled beets are a match made in tastebud heaven! Enjoy the colorful and tangy addition to your meals! 🌟🥒💃
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Beet Party Prep
Wash the beets thoroughly under running water until they are squeaky clean. Place them in a pot filled with water and boil for 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, remove the beets from the pot and allow them to cool. After cooling, peel the skins off and slice the beets into your desired thickness.
Pickling Potion
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 bay leaf. If you wish, add optional spices such as peppercorns, cloves, or coriander seeds for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring that the sugar is completely dissolved in the liquid.
Jar of Joy
Layer the sliced beets in a sterilized jar, packing them neatly. Carefully pour the prepared pickling potion over the beets until they are completely submerged. Seal the jar tightly with a lid to preserve the flavors.
Patience is Key
Refrigerate the jar and allow the beets to pickle for a minimum of 24 hours before serving. The longer you let them sit, the more flavorful they will become.
Notes
Storage
Pickled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 weeks. Ensure the jar is sealed properly to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These pickled beets are versatile and can be served on salads, as a side dish with your favorite proteins, or enjoyed as a healthy snack on their own.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (approximately) contains 50 calories, 12g of carbohydrates, 1g of protein, 0g of fat, 2g of fiber, and 9g of sugar.
Cook techniques
Beet Preparation
Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Boil in water until tender for approximately 30-40 minutes, then cool, peel, and slice them.
Making the Pickling Solution
Combine water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and bay leaf in a saucepan. Optionally, add spices. Bring to a gentle boil until the sugar dissolves completely.
Jar Packing
Layer the sliced beets in a sterilized jar and pour the pickling solution over them until fully submerged. Seal with a tight-fitting lid.
Pickling Time
Refrigerate the jar for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. The pickled beets will intensify in flavor the longer they sit.
FAQ
Can I use other types of vinegar for pickling?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or red wine vinegar, but this will alter the flavor profile.
How long will pickled beets last in the fridge?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, pickled beets can last for about 1 to 2 months.
Are there any recommended spices for pickling?
You might consider using peppercorns, cloves, or coriander seeds, but feel free to experiment with your favorite spices.
Can I make these pickled beets in advance?
Absolutely! They taste even better after sitting in the fridge for a few days, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade quick pickled beets as a delightful addition to any meal or as a standalone snack!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pickled Vegetables Medley
Try pickling a mix of cucumbers, carrots, and radishes for a colorful antipasto platter.
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
Combine pickled beets with creamy goat cheese and arugula for a fresh salad.
Beet and Walnut Dip
Blend pickled beets with walnuts, garlic, and olive oil for a tangy dip.
Wraps and Sandwiches
Add pickled beets to your favorite wraps or sandwiches for extra flavor and crunch.
