If you’re looking for a colorful and flavorful side dish that brings just the right amount of tang and sweetness, this classic pickled beets recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re a longtime fan of pickled vegetables or new to the world of home pickling, this easy-to-follow recipe uses simple ingredients and traditional techniques to create a timeless treat. With their vibrant hue and zesty flavor, pickled beets are perfect alongside sandwiches, salads, or even on their own as a refreshing snack.

Ingredients:

• 8 large, fresh beets

• 1 cup vinegar (apple cider vinegar recommended for a milder, slightly fruity flavor)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 1/2 teaspoons whole cloves

• 1 1/2 teaspoons whole allspice

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep and Clean the Beets
Start by thoroughly washing your beets to remove any dirt. Trim the beet tops, leaving about one inch of the stems intact—this helps prevent too much color from bleeding during the cooking process. Don’t worry about peeling the beets just yet; that comes after they’re cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Beets
Place the cleaned beets in a Dutch oven or large pot and cover them completely with water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let the beets simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides easily into the largest beet.

Step 3: Cool and Peel
After cooking, carefully remove the beets from the pot and allow them to cool until they’re comfortable to handle. Once cooled, the skins should slip off easily—just use your fingers or a paper towel to rub them off. Slice the peeled beets into even rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Place the sliced beets into a large bowl and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Pickling Brine
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, whole cloves, allspice, and salt. Stir occasionally as you bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for about five minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and infuse the brine with warm spice notes.

Step 5: Pickle the Beets
Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the sliced beets in the bowl, making sure all the pieces are thoroughly coated with the flavorful brine. Use a spoon to gently stir if needed to ensure even coverage.

Step 6: Chill and Marinate
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to soak in. For an even bolder taste, let the beets sit overnight. The longer they marinate, the richer the flavor becomes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, you can drain the excess pickling liquid, though some people enjoy a little extra brine drizzled on their plate. These homemade pickled beets pair wonderfully with green salads, grilled meats, cold sandwiches, and cheese platters. They also make a vibrant and festive side dish for holiday meals or potlucks.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with the cloves and allspice adding a subtle warmth and depth to the pickling brine. Apple cider vinegar enhances the beets’ natural sweetness while giving them that signature zing. The simplicity of the ingredients and the approachable steps make it ideal even for beginners who are just getting into home pickling.

Pickled beets also offer great health benefits. Beets are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like folate and manganese. When pickled with care and consumed in moderation, they can be a tasty and wholesome addition to your regular meal rotation.

Storing Your Pickled Beets

Once pickled, these beets can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks. If you’re interested in longer storage, consider using a sterilized canning method for shelf-stable preservation. Just make sure to follow safe canning guidelines if going that route.

Final Thoughts

There’s something nostalgic and satisfying about making pickled beets from scratch. This recipe brings out the best in fresh beets, preserving their earthy sweetness while infusing them with bold, tangy flavors that brighten up any dish. Whether you’re adding them to a fresh salad or serving them as a vibrant side, these pickled beets will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

So the next time you pick up a bunch of fresh beets at the farmers market or grocery store, give this simple recipe a try. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite—with a homemade touch that’s hard to beat.