Are you looking for a vibrant and tangy addition to your next meal? Forget store-bought pickles – these refrigerator beet pickles are incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and ready in just a few days! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals that are also incredibly delicious. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing the best recipes without any fuss. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of beets, enhanced by a tangy brine. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4-5 medium beets)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar (granulated or coconut sugar)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dill seeds (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beets
Wash and peel the beets thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the beets. Uniformly thin slices will ensure even pickling.
Step 2: Create the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill seeds (if using), and smashed garlic cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Step 3: Pack and Pickle
Pack the sliced beets tightly into a clean, sterilized glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the beets, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Seal the jar tightly with a lid and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. These pickles will be ready to enjoy in 2-3 days, but they will continue to develop flavor over time, up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Refrigerator Beet Pickles:
- Sterilize your jar: To prevent mold and ensure the pickles last longer, sterilize your jar by washing it in hot, soapy water, then rinsing thoroughly. You can also sterilize it in boiling water for a few minutes.
- Thinly sliced beets: The thinner your beet slices, the faster and more evenly they will pickle.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the amount of sugar. Conversely, add more if you prefer a sweeter pickle.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or fennel seeds for a slightly licorice-like flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Beet Pickles: Add a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the jar along with the beets.
- Herb Beet Pickles: Include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the brine for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 30-40 calories Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-10 grams Fiber: Approximately 2 grams
Enjoy your homemade refrigerator beet pickles! They’re a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, or enjoyed as a simple snack. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks, making it a staple for any food lover's repertoire. These quick dinner ideas are not only healthy and delicious but also incredibly satisfying. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to create these best recipes at home!