Hot Pickled Beets
Hot pickled beets offer a sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor profile with a warm, comforting appeal, perfect for side dishes or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain liquid from beets into a large pot.
- Mix in sugar, vinegar, and pickling spices.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the spices.
- Bring the strained liquid to a boil again.
- Dissolve cornstarch in cold water.
- Slowly stir the cornstarch mixture into the boiling liquid until slightly thickened.
- Add the beets and simmer to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the pickling liquid. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a thickener; just make sure to mix it well to avoid lumps. Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. For a unique twist, try incorporating flavors from Best Waldorf Salad by adding chopped apples or walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot pickled beets as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They also work well in salads, adding a tangy flavor and beautiful color. Pair them with dishes like Ed'S Oatburgers for a satisfying meal or serve alongside Molded Cranberry Relish for a festive touch during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or vinegar to maintain moisture. You can also microwave them for a quick option, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pickled Beets contains roughly 532 calories, with 2g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value).
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 canned ones?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh beets! Boil or roast them until tender, then peel and slice before following the rest of the recipe. Keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they're fully cooked and flavorful.
How long do these pickled beets last?
Hot pickled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to preserve them longer, consider canning them according to safe canning guidelines, which can extend their shelf life significantly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly! All the ingredients used, such as beets, vinegar, and sugar, are plant-based. Just ensure that the pickling spices you choose do not contain any non-vegan ingredients.
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).