Homemade Pickled Beets

Ingredients

For the Beets

  • 6 medium beets
  • Water (for boiling)

For the Pickling Brine

  • 1 ½ cups white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon whole peppercorns
  • 1–2 bay leaves
  • Optional spices:
    • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
    • ¼ teaspoon cloves
    • ½ teaspoon coriander seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beets

Wash beets thoroughly. Leave the skins on and trim only the long roots.

Place the beets in a pot, cover with water, and boil for 35–45 minutes or until tender.

2. Peel and Slice

Once cooked, let the beets cool slightly.

The skins will slide off easily.

Slice into rounds or wedges—just like the image.

3. Make the Pickling Brine

In a saucepan:

Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and optional spices.

Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

4. Pack the Jars

Fill sterilized jars with the sliced beets.

Pour the hot brine over them until fully covered.

5. Seal and Refrigerate

Close the jars tightly.

Let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 24 hours before eating.

The flavor gets even better after 3–5 days!

How Long They Last

In the fridge: 3 months

If water-bath canned: up to 12–18 months

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