If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious side dish, look no further than pickled beets. This recipe is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients. To start, you’ll need eight large, fresh beets, which will provide a boost of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
To prepare the beets, begin by scrubbing them clean and cutting off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem attached. Place the beets in a Dutch oven and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the beets are tender. Remove the beets from the water and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel and slice the beets, then place them in a basin and set them aside.
While the beets are cooling, prepare the pickling liquid. In a small saucepan, combine one cup of vinegar, half a cup of sugar, one and a half teaspoons of whole cloves, one and a half teaspoons of whole allspice, and half a teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about five minutes.
Once the pickling liquid has cooled slightly, pour it over the sliced beets. Cover the basin and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, drain the liquid and enjoy your delicious pickled beets. This recipe makes a great side dish or addition to salads and sandwiches.