To begin with, sweet and spicy pickled beets pair remarkably well with various dishes. You can serve them alongside cold meats like ham or turkey. They also complement cheese platters, making a humble cheese look gourmet. A hearty, crusty bread smothered with goat cheese and topped with these beets—sounds divine, right? They can even add a punch to your salads or just be savored alone.
Today, I’m diving deep into a dish that’s an absolute showstopper at any meal, yet so simple to prepare—sweet and spicy pickled beets. Trust me, the balance of sweetness with a hint of heat will rock your culinary world. And hey, I’m all for easy, healthful recipes; this dish is no exception.
What Are Sweet and Spicy Pickled Beets?
So, let’s chat about what sweet and spicy pickled beets actually are. Essentially, they’re beets preserved in a vinegar brine infused with sugar, spices, and a touch of heat. The result is a vibrant jar of delightful flavors that you can enjoy all year round.
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What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine taking a bite where sweet notes playfully mingle with a mild spiciness, all underlined by the earthy taste of beets. It’s like a zesty dance party in your mouth! The vinegar adds a tangy punch, while aromatic spices contribute layers of flavor that are both inviting and surprising.
Why This Recipe Works
Balanced Flavor Profile
This recipe carefully balances sweetness and spiciness. It’s not an assault on your taste buds but a harmonious blend that leaves you craving more.
Long Shelf Life
Once pickled, these beets can last for months. They’re perfect for busy folks who want something ready to go without the hassle of daily prep.
Versatility
You can use these beets in myriad dishes—salads, sandwiches, or as a side to your favorite roast. The options are virtually endless.
Health Benefits
Beets are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Plus, the pickling process preserves much of their nutritional goodness while adding gut-friendly probiotics.
Ingredients For Sweet and Spicy Pickled Beets
- 4 pounds medium-sized beets
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 cinnamon sticks, each broken into 2 pieces
- 3 cups onions, thinly sliced into rings
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1½ cups water
- 2½ cups apple cider vinegar
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Beets
First things first. Scrub the beets clean under running water. Trim off the tops and roots. Place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then simmer until they’re tender when poked with a fork—about 45 minutes.
Step 2: Creating the Brine
While the beets are cooking, prep your brine. In another pot, combine water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and sea salt. Toss in the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, bay leaf, allspice berries, and mustard seeds. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Slicing the Beets and Onions
Once the beets are cooked, drain and cool them under running cold water. Peel off the skins—this should be easy now. Slice the beets into thin rounds or wedges. Also, slice the onions into rings.
Step 4: Combining Everything
Pack the sliced beets and onions into sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over the beets and onions, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Seal the jars immediately.
Step 5: Canning Process
For those who want to ensure long-term storage, use a water bath canning process. Place the sealed jars in boiling water for about 15 minutes. Remove them and let them cool completely.
Notes
- Use Fresh Beets: Opt for fresh, firm beets for the best texture.
- Ginger Freshness: Fresh ginger works better than dried. It brings a lovely, zesty kick.
- Seal It Right: The jars should be properly sterilized to avoid contamination.
- Balanced Heat: Adjust the amount of ginger and mustard seeds to manage the heat level.
- Wait Time: For the best flavor, let the pickled beets sit for at least a week before consuming.
Nutrition Information
How To Store The Leftovers?
After opening a jar, store it in the fridge. It can last for up to three months. Just make sure to keep the beets submerged in the brine to ensure freshness.
Sides For Sweet and Spicy Pickled Beets
Cheese Platter
These beets pair impeccably with various cheeses. Think goat cheese, brie, or a sharp cheddar. The sweet and spicy notes work like a charm with creamy cheese.
Grilled Meats
Serve these beets as a side to grilled meats like chicken, pork, or beef. The tangy, sweet flavors provide a delightful contrast to the smoky goodness of grilled meat.
Salads
Toss these pickled beets into your favorite salads. They add color, texture, and an exciting flavor burst.
Sandwich Fillings
Add them to sandwiches or wraps for an unexpected twist. They taste great with turkey, roast beef, or even in a veggie-loaded sandwich.
What are some alternative choices to the ingredients in case they are not in your pantry?
White Vinegar instead of Apple Cider Vinegar
White vinegar works well if you don’t have apple cider vinegar. It’s less sweet but just as tangy.
Granulated Sugar vs. Brown Sugar
If you’re out of granulated sugar, brown sugar can add a nice depth of flavor with its molasses content.
Ground Spices vs. Whole Spices
While whole spices are ideal, ground ones could be a good substitute. Just reduce the quantities to avoid overpowering the flavor.
Pickling Spice
If you don’t have individual spices, a pickling spice mix can work wonders. It’s a convenient alternative packed with all the necessary flavors.
Equipment
- large pot
- Sterilized jars
Ingredients
- 4 pounds medium-sized beets
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 cinnamon sticks each broken into 2 pieces
- 3 cups onions thinly sliced into rings
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1½ cups water
- 2½ cups apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Beets
- First things first. Scrub the beets clean under running water. Trim off the tops and roots. Place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then simmer until they’re tender when poked with a fork—about 45 minutes.
Step 2: Creating the Brine
- While the beets are cooking, prep your brine. In another pot, combine water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and sea salt. Toss in the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, bay leaf, allspice berries, and mustard seeds. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Slicing the Beets and Onions
- Once the beets are cooked, drain and cool them under running cold water. Peel off the skins—this should be easy now. Slice the beets into thin rounds or wedges. Also, slice the onions into rings.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Pack the sliced beets and onions into sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over the beets and onions, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Seal the jars immediately.
Step 5: Canning Process
- For those who want to ensure long-term storage, use a water bath canning process. Place the sealed jars in boiling water for about 15 minutes. Remove them and let them cool completely.
Notes
- Use Fresh Beets: Opt for fresh, firm beets for the best texture.
- Ginger Freshness: Fresh ginger works better than dried. It brings a lovely, zesty kick.
- Seal It Right: The jars should be properly sterilized to avoid contamination.
- Balanced Heat: Adjust the amount of ginger and mustard seeds to manage the heat level.
- Wait Time: For the best flavor, let the pickled beets sit for at least a week before consuming.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to peel the beets before pickling?
No, peeling isn’t strictly necessary. However, peeling them post-boiling ensures a smoother texture and better flavor absorption.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar amount to suit your taste without compromising the overall quality of the pickles.
How do I ensure my jars are properly sealed?
Listen for the “pop” sound once you seal the jars. This sound indicates a proper vacuum seal, ensuring long-term preservation.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add carrots, radishes, or even slices of cucumber to create a more diverse pickled mix.
Conclusion
Sweet and spicy pickled beets are a versatile, delightful addition to any kitchen. They elevate many dishes and can be made easily with pantry staples. From the satisfying crunch to the irresistible tang, they offer a flavor experience that’s as exciting as it is delicious. So, grab those beets and get pickling—you’ll thank me later!