Homemade Pickled Beets Recipe

Here’s a simple, classic Homemade Pickled Beets recipe that’s easy and beginner-friendly 😊

Homemade Pickled Beets

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh beets (about 6–8 medium)

• 1 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)

• ½ cup water

• ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1½ teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• 4–6 whole peppercorns (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the beets

   • Wash beets and trim the stems (leave about 1 inch).

   • Place in a pot, cover with water, and boil for 30–40 minutes until fork-tender.

   • Drain and cool slightly. Rub off the skins with your hands.

   • Slice or cube the beets.

2. Make the pickling liquid

   • In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices.

   • Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.

   • Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Pickle the beets

   • Place sliced beets into clean glass jars or a heat-safe container.

   • Pour hot pickling liquid over the beets until fully covered.

   • Let cool, then cover and refrigerate.

4. Chill & serve

   • Refrigerate at least 24 hours before eating for best flavor.

   • Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.

Tips & Variations

• For less sweet, reduce sugar to ½ cup.

• Add onion slices for extra flavor.

• Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a milder taste.

• Great as a side dish, in salads, or on sandwiches.