Introduction
Pickled beets are one of those old-fashioned, timeless recipes that never go out of style. They are sweet, tangy, and bursting with flavor, making them a versatile side dish or snack. You can add them to salads, serve them alongside roasted meats, layer them on sandwiches, or simply enjoy them straight from the jar.

The best part? Making pickled beets at home is surprisingly easy, requires only a handful of ingredients, and gives you complete control over the sweetness and flavor. In this recipe, you’ll learn step-by-step how to prepare, cook, and pickle beets, along with useful tips for storing and customizing your jars.

Ingredients
6 medium beets (washed and trimmed)
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional)
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beets
Place the beets in a large pot and cover with water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the beets are fork-tender (about 35–45 minutes depending on their size).
Drain and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the thin skins — they should slip off easily with your fingers.
Step 2: Slice or Cube
Cut the cooked beets into slices, wedges, or cubes. Choose the shape based on how you plan to serve them (slices are great for salads, cubes work well as a snack).
Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
Add optional spices: ground cloves, peppercorns, and cinnamon stick for extra flavor.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Step 4: Fill the Jars