Beet Pickle Recipe for Canning: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Beet pickles are a unique and delicious way to enjoy this versatile root vegetable. They offer a sweet and tangy flavor profile that's perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. This recipe will guide you through the process of canning your own beet pickles, ensuring a safe and delicious result.
Ingredients:
- Beets: 2 pounds, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Vinegar: 2 cups white vinegar
- Sugar: 1 cup granulated sugar
- Salt: 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- Pickling Spice: 2 tablespoons (or to taste)
- Garlic Cloves: 6-8 cloves, peeled
- Black Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beets:
- Wash and peel the beets. Cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- Blanch the beets in boiling water for 5 minutes. This helps retain their color and texture. Drain well.
2. Prepare the Brine:
- In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, pickling spice, garlic cloves, and peppercorns.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack the Jars:
- Sterilize jars and lids. You can either boil them in water for 10 minutes or run them through a dishwasher on the sanitize cycle.
- Pack the beets into the prepared jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
- Pour the hot brine over the beets, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.
4. Process the Jars:
- Wipe the jar rims with a clean damp cloth to remove any brine residue.
- Place the lids and bands on the jars, tightening them just until fingertip tight.
- Place the jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch.
- Process the jars for 30 minutes, adjusting the time for your altitude.
5. Cool and Store:
- Carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a clean towel to cool completely.
- Listen for the "pop" of the lids sealing.
- Once cool, check the seals by pressing on the center of the lid. If it doesn't move, the seal is good.
- Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: This will make a big difference in the flavor of your pickles.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: You can add more or less pickling spice depending on your preference.
- Don't overpack the jars: This can affect the seal and make the pickles less crispy.
- Follow the processing time carefully: This ensures the pickles are properly preserved.
Enjoy your homemade beet pickles! They can be served as a side dish with roasted meats or fish, enjoyed as a snack with crackers or cheese, or even used as a topping for salads.
