Step 1: Prepare the Beets

  1. Wash and Trim

    • Rinse the beets thoroughly under running water to remove dirt.
    • Trim off the greens and roots, leaving about 1 inch of stem to prevent bleeding during cooking.

  2. Boil or Roast the Beets

    • To Boil: Place the beets in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until tender.
    • To Roast: Wrap the beets in aluminum foil and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 40–60 minutes until they can be easily pierced with a knife.

  3. Peel the Beets

    • Once the beets are cool enough to handle, use your hands or a paper towel to rub off the skin. (Wearing gloves can prevent staining your hands.)

Step 2: Slice the Beets

  • Slice the peeled beets into your preferred shape: thin rounds, wedges, or matchsticks. Uniform slicing ensures even pickling.

Step 3: Prepare the Pickling Brine

  1. Combine Ingredients

    • In a small saucepan, mix 1 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1/3 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt.
    • Add your chosen spices (e.g., 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, or a cinnamon stick).

  2. Heat the Brine

    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Pack the Beets into Jars

  1. Layer the Beets

    • Place the sliced beets into clean glass jars, layering with optional add-ins like sliced onions or garlic for extra flavor.

  2. Pour the Brine

    • Carefully pour the warm pickling brine over the beets, ensuring the slices are fully submerged.

  3. Seal and Cool

    • Seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Step 5: Let Them Pickle

  • Allow the beets to pickle in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before eating to let the flavors develop. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will be.

Storage and Serving Tips

  • Shelf Life: Refrigerator pickled beets can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Always use a clean utensil to remove beets from the jar to avoid contamination.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve these tangy beets on a salad with goat cheese, as a topping for sandwiches or burgers, or enjoy them straight from the jar.

Flavor Variations

  1. Sweet and Spicy: Add a few red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat.
  2. Herbal Touch: Include fresh dill or thyme sprigs in the jar.
  3. Citrus Twist: Add a slice of orange or lemon peel for a refreshing citrus note.

The Verdict

Making quick refrigerator pickled beets is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of pickled beets without the hassle of traditional canning. With their perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and earthy flavors, these pickled beets will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re a pickling pro or a beginner, this recipe is an excellent way to add a healthy and delicious twist to your meals!