Are you looking for a vibrant and healthy side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for pickled beets without sugar offers a delicious alternative to traditional, sugary pickled beets. It's perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to your meals, and it's surprisingly quick to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for adding a touch of homemade goodness to your table. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound medium-sized beets, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Fresh dill sprigs (optional, for added flavor and visual appeal)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the beets: Wash and peel the beets thoroughly. Cut them into quarters, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Smaller pieces will pickle faster.
-
Combine the brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, salt, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the salt is completely dissolved.
-
Pickle the beets: Once the brine is boiling, carefully add the beet quarters to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to a simmer, ensuring the beets are mostly submerged in the brine. If necessary, add a bit more water to ensure they are covered.
-
Simmer and cool: Simmer the beets gently for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Do not overcook, as this can make them mushy.
-
Pack and store: Carefully remove the beets from the brine using a slotted spoon and pack them into a clean glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the beets, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top of the jar. Add fresh dill sprigs, if desired.
-
Cool and refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool completely at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. The beets will continue to pickle as they cool and will be ready to enjoy in about 24 hours. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Pickled Beets:
- Choose the right beets: Select firm, unblemished beets for the best results.
- Don't overcrowd the jar: Leave enough headspace to allow for expansion during pickling.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor combinations. A bay leaf or a few juniper berries would also be delicious additions.
- Sterilize jars (optional): For longer shelf life, sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before packing the beets.
Variations:
- Sweet and spicy: Add a touch of maple syrup or honey for a slightly sweeter pickle.
- Herby delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon.
- Garlic lovers: Add more garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a low-calorie, low-sugar, and healthy side dish rich in antioxidants and fiber. The exact nutritional values will vary based on serving size and ingredients used.
This delicious and healthy recipe for pickled beets without sugar is perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to your meals. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe makes a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy!