Aunt Edna'S Pickled Beets
Sweet and tangy pickled beets with a hint of spice, perfect as a side or condiment for salads, sandwiches, and holiday platters. Bright and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and cook beets.
- In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and pickling spices.
- Heat the mixture to boiling.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over cooked beets in jars, covering them completely.
- Seal the jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm, fresh beets for pickling. You can substitute white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the sugar to 4 cups. Adding a few cloves or a cinnamon stick to the pickling spices can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to sterilize your jars properly to ensure longevity.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Edna's pickled beets make a great addition to salads or can be enjoyed as a side dish. They pair beautifully with Macaroni And Frozen Pea Salad for a colorful meal. For a unique twist, try them on a charcuterie board or as a tangy topping on sandwiches. Their sweet and sour flavor complements grilled meats exceptionally well.
Storage & Reheating
Store sealed jars of pickled beets in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate them and consume within a month. To serve leftovers, simply remove the desired amount and let them come to room temperature, or gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat to retain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Edna'S Pickled Beets contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
While fresh beets are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, canned beets can be used in a pinch. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the jars with the pickling liquid. Keep in mind this may alter the texture, as canned beets are softer than freshly cooked ones.
How long do the pickled beets need to sit before they're ready to eat?
For the best flavor, allow the pickled beets to sit for at least 24 to 48 hours before consuming. This resting period helps the beets absorb the pickling spices and flavors fully. However, they can be enjoyed right after canning; just know that the taste will continue to develop over time.
Can I add other vegetables to the pickling liquid?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding sliced onions, carrots, or even garlic cloves to the pickling liquid along with the beets. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even pickling. This can create a delightful mix of flavors and add variety to your pickled jars.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).