Irresistibly Delicious Refrigerator Pickled Beets Recipe: A Tangy Delight for Your Taste Buds

If you’re looking to elevate your culinary repertoire with a vibrant and tangy side dish, look no further than this irresistible refrigerator pickled beets……

If you’re looking to elevate your culinary repertoire with a vibrant and tangy side dish, look no further than this irresistible refrigerator pickled beets recipe. Not only do pickled beets add a beautiful pop of color to your plate, but they also bring a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity that can enhance a variety of meals. Whether served alongside roasted meats, tossed in salads, or enjoyed straight from the jar, these pickled beets are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

### Why Pickle Beets?

Beets are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. When pickled, they become a versatile ingredient that can be stored in your refrigerator for weeks, making them a convenient addition to any meal. The pickling process enhances their natural sweetness while adding a tangy flavor that makes them utterly addictive. Plus, making refrigerator pickled beets is incredibly easy and requires minimal ingredients.

### Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your own refrigerator pickled beets, gather the following ingredients:

- 4 medium-sized beets

- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar

- 1 cup of water

- 1/2 cup of sugar

- 1 tablespoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns

- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds (optional)

- 1 bay leaf (optional)

- A jar or airtight container for storage

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Beets**: Start by washing the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Trim the tops and roots, leaving about an inch of the stems intact. This helps prevent the beets from bleeding too much during cooking.

2. **Cook the Beets**: Place the beets in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the beets and let them cool slightly.

3. **Peel the Beets**: Once the beets are cool enough to handle, use your hands or a paper towel to rub off the skins. The skins should come off easily. Cut the beets into slices or cubes, depending on your preference.

4. **Prepare the Pickling Liquid**: In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.

5. **Pack the Jars**: Place the sliced or cubed beets into a clean jar or airtight container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged. If needed, you can add more water or vinegar in equal parts to cover the beets completely.

6. **Cool and Refrigerate**: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature before sealing it. Once cooled, place it in the refrigerator. The beets will be ready to eat in about 24 hours, but they taste even better after a few days of marinating.

### Enjoying Your Pickled Beets

These refrigerator pickled beets are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side dish, toss them into salads for added flavor and texture, or use them as a colorful garnish for sandwiches and burgers. They also make a fantastic addition to charcuterie boards, providing a delightful contrast to rich cheeses and cured meats.

### Conclusion

This refrigerator pickled beets recipe is not only simple to make but also a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With their vibrant color and tangy flavor, pickled beets are sure to impress your family and friends. So why wait? Dive into the delightful world of pickling and enjoy the wonderful taste of homemade refrigerator pickled beets today!