Preserving Beets with Quick Pickling: An Easy Method
Preserving Beets with Quick Pickling at home is a rewarding way to enjoy their earthy flavor all year round. This quick pickle recipe is perfect for preserving beets without the complexities of traditional canning methods. It’s an easy and effective way to make refrigerator pickles that add a delightful tang to any dish.
Start by thoroughly washing the beets. If fresh, cook them in a large pot of boiling water for 15-20 minutes. Drain and cool them under cold water. Peel off the skins and remove the roots and tops. Slice them into thick pieces.
In a small saucepan, mix apple cider vinegar, cold water, granulated sugar, salt, and whole cloves. For added flavor, include garlic and ground cinnamon if desired. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Add the sliced beets to the brine and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature in the brine.
Place the beets and brine in canning jars or airtight containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. This recipe will fill around 3-4 pint jars.
Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll be ready to eat after 4 hours. If you can wait for 24 hours, the flavors will deepen. They keep well for 2-4 weeks.