### PICKLED BEETS RECIPE
#### **Introduction**
Pickled beets are a timeless dish that combines natural sweetness with tangy vinegar notes. Perfect as a side dish, salad topping, or snack, these ruby-red slices are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Their bright color and zesty taste make them a beautiful addition to any table.
### **Ingredients**
**For the Beets:**
* 2 kg fresh beets (medium-sized)
* 1 tablespoon salt
* Water for boiling
**For the Pickling Brine:**
* 2 cups apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
* 1 ½ cups sugar
* 1 cup water
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
* 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
* 3 whole cloves (optional)
* 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Beets:**
* Wash beets thoroughly, removing stems and leaves, leaving about 2 cm of stem to prevent bleeding.
* Place beets in a large pot, cover with water, and add salt.
* Bring to a boil and cook until tender (about 35–45 minutes, depending on size).
* Drain and let cool slightly.
2. **Peel and Slice:**
* Once cooled enough to handle, slip off the skins (they’ll peel easily).
* Slice beets into ½ cm thick rounds or wedges.
3. **Make the Pickling Brine:**
* In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and spices.
* Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
* Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. **Combine:**
* Place sliced beets into sterilized jars.
* Pour hot brine over the beets, covering them completely.
* Seal jars tightly.
5. **Storage:**
* Let jars cool to room temperature.
* Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving (for best flavor, wait 3–5 days).
* Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
### **History**
Pickled beets originated in Eastern Europe, where they were prized for their ability to preserve nutrients through winter. Over time, they spread across continents, becoming a favorite in salads and traditional meals worldwide.
### **Benefits**
* Rich in **iron, folate, and fiber**
* Supports **blood pressure regulation**
* Boosts **liver detoxification**
* Improves **stamina and heart health**
* Aids **digestion** and **gut health**
### **Nutrition (per 100g)**
* Calories: 45 kcal
* Carbohydrates: 10 g
* Sugars: 8 g
* Fiber: 2 g
* Protein: 1.5 g
* Fat: 0 g
### **Conclusion**
These pickled beets are tangy, sweet, and full of earthy flavor — perfect on their own or paired with cheese, salads, or roasted meats. With each vibrant slice, you taste tradition, nutrition, and freshness.
