Refrigerator pickled beets are a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements a variety of dishes. Making these delicious pickled beets at home is surprisingly easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making refrigerator pickled beets, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and a satisfying crunch. So, let’s get started!
Gathering Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
To make refrigerator pickled beets, you will need the following ingredients:
- Fresh beets – 4 to 6 medium-sized
- White vinegar – 1 cup
- Water – 1 cup
- Sugar – 1/2 cup
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon
- Peppercorns – 1 tablespoon
- Bay leaves – 2
- Whole cloves – 4
Equipment:
To successfully make refrigerator pickled beets, you will need the following equipment:
- A large saucepan
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A canning jar or airtight container
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients and equipment, we can move on to preparing the beets and creating the pickling solution.
Preparing the Beets
The first step in making refrigerator pickled beets is to prepare the beets themselves. Follow these simple steps:
- Begin by washing the beets thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully trim off the beet greens, leaving about half an inch of the stems intact. This will prevent bleeding during the cooking process.
- Place the beets in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them completely.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the beets until they are tender when pierced with a fork. This usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the beets.
- Once the beets are cooked, drain the water and allow them to cool completely.
- Once the beets have cooled, use your hands to gently rub off the skin. The skins should come off easily, revealing the vibrant and tender flesh beneath.
- Trim off the remaining stems and roots, and slice the beets into your desired shape and size. You can cut them into rounds, quarters, or any other shape you prefer.
With the beets prepared and ready, it’s time to move on to creating the pickling solution.
Creating the Pickling Solution
The pickling solution is what gives refrigerator pickled beets their distinct flavor. Follow these steps to create the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness:
- In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, kosher salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and whole cloves.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to ensure that the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool for about 10 minutes.
- While the pickling solution is still warm, carefully pour it over the sliced beets in the canning jar or airtight container.
- Ensure that the beets are completely submerged in the pickling solution before sealing the jar or container tightly.
Refrigerating and Enjoying the Pickled Beets
After creating the pickled beets, it’s time to refrigerate them and allow the flavors to meld together. Follow these final steps:
- Place the sealed canning jar or airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Allow the pickled beets to marinate for at least 24 hours before tasting to ensure that they have absorbed the delicious flavors of the pickling solution.
- Once the pickled beets have had time to develop their flavor, they are ready to be enjoyed.
- Refrigerator pickled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy their tangy goodness whenever you please.
Whether you add them to salads, sandwiches, or enjoy them as a standalone side dish, refrigerator pickled beets are a delightful treat that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Now that you have followed this step-by-step guide, you can impress your friends and family with your homemade pickled beets. So, put on your apron and get ready to enjoy the sweet and tangy goodness of refrigerator pickled beets!