Helaty Pickled Beets Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beets

1. Cook the beets: Start by boiling the beets until they are tender. Place the beets in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, lower the heat and let the beets simmer for about 30-40 minutes, depending on their size, until you can easily pierce them with a fork. You can also roast the beets at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, but boiling is the most common and quicker method.
2. Peel and slice the beets: Once the beets are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes, then peel off the skins using your hands or a paper towel (they should come off easily). After peeling, slice or cube the beets into your desired size.

Step 2: Make the Pickling Liquid

1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, honey (or maple syrup), salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, garlic, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
2. Bring to a simmer: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the salt and honey have dissolved, and then let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Pickle the Beets

1. Pack the beets: While the pickling liquid is simmering, pack the sliced or cubed beets into a clean glass jar. A mason jar works perfectly for this, but any airtight jar will do. If you’re using fresh dill, add a few sprigs to the jar for extra flavor.
2. Pour the pickling liquid: Once the pickling liquid is ready, pour it over the beets in the jar, making sure they are completely submerged. If you have extra liquid, feel free to add more water or vinegar in equal parts to cover the beets.
3. Seal and refrigerate: Seal the jar tightly and allow the pickled beets to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, refrigerate the jar for at least 24 hours to let the flavors develop. For the best results, let them sit in the fridge for 3-5 days to fully pickle and enhance the taste.

Tips for Making the Best Pickled Beets

• Adjust sweetness and tang: If you like a sweeter pickle, add a little more honey or maple syrup to the pickling liquid. For a sharper, more tangy flavor, increase the vinegar slightly.
• Use the beet greens: If your beets come with their greens, don’t throw them away! Beet greens are edible and can be sautéed or added to soups for a nutritious, flavorful boost.
• Spices: Customize the spices based on your preference. Some people like adding cloves, cinnamon sticks, or allspice for a more aromatic flavor. You can also experiment with ginger or chili flakes if you want a spicy kick.
• Serving suggestions: Pickled beets are delicious on their own as a snack, but they also make a great addition to salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, or as a tangy side to meats like roast chicken or pork.

Health Benefits of Pickled Beets

1. Rich in Nutrients: Beets are full of essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. They are an excellent source of folate, manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C, all of which help keep your body functioning at its best.
2. Supports Digestive Health: The high fiber content in beets helps support digestion and promote regular bowel movements. The fermentation process of pickling can also introduce beneficial probiotics into the gut, which can help improve gut health.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Beets contain betalains, which are powerful antioxidants that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This can help manage chronic conditions like arthritis or improve overall health.
4. Detoxification: Beets are known to support liver function and detoxification. The natural compounds in beets, such as betalains and fiber, help the liver filter toxins and waste from the body.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe

Pickled beets are a delicious, vibrant, and nutritious way to enjoy this root vegetable. They’re a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while offering a tangy, sweet flavor that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes. This Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe is simple to make, customizable to your tastes, and a fantastic way to preserve beets for longer periods. Plus, they’re a great addition to any healthy eating plan.

So, the next time you’re looking for a colorful, nutrient-packed treat, make a batch of pickled beets! They’re a fun and easy way to enjoy one of nature’s most versatile vegetables, and you’ll love the tangy, satisfying crunch in every bite.