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–+ servings

Homemade Sweet and Tangy Pickled Beets

These vibrant homemade pickled beets are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This classic American recipe transforms fresh beets into a delicious side dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 60 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 60
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 10 pounds fresh small beets stems removed
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pickling salt
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves optional
  • 4 cinnamon sticks broken into pieces (optional)

Method
 

  1. Wash beets thoroughly, removing any dirt. Leave roots intact and trim stems to 1 inch to prevent bleeding during cooking.
  2. Place beets in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender when pierced with a fork, about 25-30 minutes depending on size.
  3. Drain beets and allow them to cool until comfortable to handle. The skins should slip off easily. Wear gloves to prevent staining your hands.
  4. Trim off roots and remaining stems, then slice or quarter beets depending on size and your preference.
  5. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, pickling salt, vinegar, and water. If using, add cloves and cinnamon sticks for extra flavor.
  6. Bring brine mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
  7. Add sliced beets to the hot brine and return to a boil for 5 minutes.
  8. Pack beets into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Ladle hot brine over beets, maintaining the 1/2 inch headspace.
  9. Remove air bubbles by running a knife around the inside of each jar. Wipe jar rims clean with a damp cloth.
  10. Secure lids and rings on jars, tightening to fingertip tightness.
  11. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes (adjust time for altitude if necessary).
  12. Remove jars and allow to cool completely on a towel-lined counter for 24 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 1gSodium: 176mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12g
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