Beets

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min

Sweet and tangy pickled beets with a vibrant color and robust flavor, perfect as a side dish or condiment. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and pickling spices creates a balanced taste that appeals to those who enjoy classic preserved vegetables. Suitable for picnics, salads, or as a gift.

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Ingredients

  • 4 qt. beets, cooked
  • 2 c. sugar
  • 3 1/2 c. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. pickling spices
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 1/2 c. water

Instructions

  1. Cook beets and put in jars.
  2. Pour combined remaining ingredients over beets.
  3. Cold-pack for 5 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, allow the beets to marinate in the pickling solution for at least 24 hours before serving. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider increasing the sugar slightly. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a milder flavor. If you have leftover pickling spices, they can be used in other pickling recipes or to season dishes like Vegetable Sandwich Spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pickled beets as a tangy side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of a salad for added color and flavor. They pair beautifully with Homemade Soup Mix for a wholesome meal. Consider adding them to a charcuterie board for a delightful contrast to cheeses and cured meats.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickled beets in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a month when properly sealed. To enjoy them warm, simply heat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or add them directly to salads or sandwiches for a refreshing crunch.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beets contains roughly 553 calories, with 5g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1877mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).

553 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.9g 10% DV
Total Fat 0.4g
Carbs 113.6g 41% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 74.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1876.5mg 82% DV
Potassium 858.6mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0mcg
Vitamin C 43.6mg 48% DV
Calcium 186.1mg 14% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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 fresh beets instead of cooked ones?

Yes, you can use fresh beets; just be sure to cook them until tender before pickling. This will help them absorb the flavors of the pickling solution better.

How long do the pickled beets last?

When stored in the refrigerator, pickled beets can last up to a month. Ensure they are sealed in an airtight jar to maintain their freshness and flavor.

What can I do with leftover pickling liquid?

Leftover pickling liquid can be used to marinate other vegetables or as a tangy dressing for salads. It’s also great for pickling cucumbers, making Frozen Cucumbers a delicious option.

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).

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