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Some health benefits include:
- Improved digestion thanks to fiber
- Reduced inflammation due to betalains, the pigments that give beets their deep color
- Better blood flow and endurance from natural nitrates
- Low-calorie, nutrient-dense profile
This recipe keeps added sugar minimal and avoids heavy syrups commonly found in store-bought versions.
⭐ Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets (about 1½ lbs), trimmed and scrubbed
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for a sharper flavor)
- 1 cup water
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 1–2 bay leaves
- Optional: ½ teaspoon mustard seeds or dill seeds for extra flavor
Instructions
1. Cook the Beets
- Boil: Place beets in a pot, cover with water, and simmer 35–45 minutes until tender.
- Roast (best flavor): Wrap whole beets in foil, bake at 400°F (204°C) for 45–60 minutes.
Once cooked, let them cool slightly, peel off the skins (they should slip off easily), and slice or cube.
2. Make the Brine
In a small saucepan, combine:
- Vinegar
- Water
- Honey/maple syrup
- Salt
Heat until the salt dissolves. Turn off heat and add garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, and optional spices.
3. Pack the Jars
Place sliced beets into a clean glass jar. Pour the warm brine over them until fully submerged.
4. Chill & Store
Let the jar cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
They taste great within 24 hours, but the flavor deepens after 2–3 days.
Storage: Keeps for 3–4 weeks in the refrigerator.
How to Serve Healthy Pickled Beets
- Add them to salads with goat cheese, walnuts, and greens
- Serve atop grain bowls with quinoa, chickpeas, and veggies
- Pair with roasted meats
- Layer in sandwiches or wraps
- Enjoy as a tangy snack
Their earthy sweetness and bright acidity make them incredibly versatile.
Tips for Making the Best Pickled Beets
- Use apple cider vinegar for a softer, naturally sweet tang.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking—start with less and add more.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a gourmet twist.
- For more crunch, avoid overcooking the beets.
- Always refrigerate this recipe—it’s a quick pickle, not shelf-stable canning.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a nutrient-rich vegetable in a delicious, convenient form. With simple ingredients and endless serving possibilities, it’s a wholesome staple you’ll want to keep in your fridge year-round.
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