Easy Sweet Beets and Pickles
Transform your side dish game with this vibrant and tangy recipe for *Easy Sweet Beets and Pickles*. This simple yet flavorful creation combines tender, earthy beets with crunchy pickle slices, all bathed in a sweet and spiced vinegar brine featuring hints of black peppercorns and optional whole cloves. With only 20 minutes of prep and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you're serving it chilled as a refreshing side dish, as a colorful salad topper, or as part of an appetizer platter with cheese and crackers, this dish delivers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Plus, its striking ruby-red hue ensures it will be the star of your table.
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Ingredients
- 4 pieces fresh beets (medium-sized)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 pieces whole cloves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 cup pickle slices (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Step 1
Wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the greens, leaving about 1 inch of stems attached to prevent bleeding during cooking.
Step 2
Place the beets in a medium pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3
While the beets are cooking, prepare the pickling liquid. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, salt, whole cloves (optional), and black peppercorns. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4
Once the beets are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool until they can be handled. Using your hands or a paper towel, gently rub the skins off the beets and discard. Slice the beets into thin rounds or wedges, as desired.
Step 5
In a clean glass jar or airtight container, layer the beet slices and pickle slices evenly.
Step 6
Pour the slightly cooled pickling liquid over the beets and pickles, making sure they're fully covered with the liquid.
Step 7
Seal the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8
Serve chilled as a side dish, salad topping, or on a platter with cheese and crackers!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1478.7 grams (1478.7g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1099 |
| Total Fat 2.00g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat 0.30g | 2% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 5081mg | 221% |
| Total Carbohydrate 265.50g | 97% |
| Dietary Fiber 21.00g | 75% |
| Total Sugars 240.20g | |
| Protein 11.10g | 22% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 221mg | 17% |
| Iron 5mg | 29% |
| Potassium 2245mg | 48% |
Source of Calories