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Once the beets have cooled and the brine has reached room temperature, place the peeled beets in a sterilized jar or airtight container. Pour the curing brine over the beets, making sure they are fully submerged. You may need to gently press down the beets to ensure they’re covered by the brine.
Step 5: Cure the Beets
Seal the jar or container and store it in the refrigerator. Allow the beets to cure for at least 48 hours. The longer you let them sit, the more flavorful they will become. Ideally, let them sit for up to a week to fully absorb the tangy, herbal brine.
Step 6: Enjoy
After your beets have cured, you can enjoy them chilled as a snack, or use them in a variety of dishes. You’ll find that the cured beets take on a rich, tangy flavor with hints of garlic and aromatic spices. They’re perfect for adding to salads, grain bowls, or paired with creamy goat cheese and arugula for a delicious, satisfying salad.
Tips for Curing Beets
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. You can try adding dill, cloves, or cinnamon sticks for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Vinegar Options: While apple cider vinegar is a popular choice for its mild tang, you can also use white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for different flavor variations.
- Make Extra: Cured beets are an excellent addition to meal prepping. If you make a large batch, they will keep for up to two weeks in the fridge. They also make a great homemade gift for friends and family!
- Serving Suggestions: Cured beets are perfect for pairing with tangy cheeses like feta or blue cheese, or even served with hummus for a refreshing appetizer. Their earthy flavor complements roasted nuts like walnuts or pecans, and they’re great atop mixed greens or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Conclusion
Cured beets are a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy this vibrant root vegetable. With minimal effort, you can create a tangy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for weight-conscious individuals, health enthusiasts, or anyone who loves a bold, aromatic vegetable. The recipe is customizable, and you can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences, making it an incredibly versatile addition to your meals.
Whether you enjoy them in salads, as a snack, or paired with your favorite dishes, cured beets are sure to impress with their stunning color and unique taste. Give this recipe a try and discover how this humble vegetable can be transformed into something extraordinary!
