𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗲

### Healthy Pickled Beets Recipe

Now that we’ve discussed the numerous health benefits of pickled beets, it’s time to dive into the recipe. Making your own pickled beets at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavor to your preferences. This healthy recipe avoids excessive sugar and sodium, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the benefits of pickled beets without the extra additives.

**Ingredients:**
– 4 medium-sized beets (about 1 ½ to 2 pounds)
– 1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
– 1 tablespoon sea salt (or kosher salt)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon peppercorns
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or dill (optional, depending on your flavor preference)
– 1-2 small onions (optional, for added flavor)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Beets:**
Start by washing and scrubbing the beets to remove any dirt. Trim off the beet greens, leaving about 1-2 inches of the stems. Place the beets in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

2. **Peel the Beets:**
Once the beets are cooked, remove them from the water and allow them to cool slightly. You can use a towel or your hands to rub the skins off. The skin should come off easily. After peeling, slice the beets into your desired shape—whether that be thin rounds, wedges, or cubes.

3. **Prepare the Pickling Brine:**
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, honey (or maple syrup), salt, garlic, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and any additional herbs you’re using (such as thyme or dill). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the salt and honey are fully dissolved. Let the brine simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. **Pack the Jars:**
Sterilize your jars and lids by running them through the dishwasher or boiling them in hot water. Once the jars are clean, layer the sliced beets, onion (if using), and any additional herbs into the jars. Pack the beets tightly, but don’t crush them.

5. **Add the Brine:**
Pour the hot pickling brine over the beets in the jars, making sure that the beets are fully submerged. You may want to use a small spoon or knife to release any air bubbles that may have formed between the beets. Leave about half an inch of space at the top of the jar.

6. **Seal the Jars:**
Seal the jars with their lids, ensuring that they are tight and secure. Let the jars cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

7. **Let the Pickles Sit:**
For the best flavor, let the pickled beets sit in the refrigerator for at least 24-48 hours before eating. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they will become. Pickled beets can typically be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.

### Tips for Perfect Pickled Beets

– **Experiment with flavors:** While the recipe outlined above is a classic version of pickled beets, feel free to get creative and add other spices or herbs that you enjoy. Some great additions include cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and allspice.
– **Use glass jars:** Always use clean glass jars for pickling. Plastic jars can sometimes leach chemicals into the brine, compromising the flavor and safety of the pickled vegetables.
– **Serve with salads:** Pickled beets are great on salads, particularly with goat cheese, arugula, and walnuts. The tangy-sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of salad greens.
– **Add to sandwiches and wraps:** Add pickled beets to sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
– **Experiment with different vinegars:** If you prefer a milder taste, try using white vinegar or rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.

### Conclusion

Pickled beets are a flavorful, nutritious addition to your diet. The process of pickling helps preserve the beets while infusing them with tangy, savory, and sweet flavors. Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, pickled beets offer numerous health benefits, from supporting digestive health to boosting your immune system and improving heart health. By following this healthy pickled beets recipe, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade treat that’s not only good for your taste buds but also great for your health.

So, gather your ingredients, get your jars ready, and enjoy the incredible flavors and benefits of pickled beets today!