Scandinavian pickled beets –Embark on a culinary journey with this refined-sugar-free Scandinavian pickled beets recipe. These pickled beets are not only vibrant in color but also rich in flavor, making them an excellent addition to your meals. They are crisp, tender, and bursting with natural sweetness, a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Refined-Sugar-Free Scandinavian Pickled Beets
These pickled beets are a delightful way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet without the need for refined sugars. Their sweet and tangy profile complements a variety of dishes, from salads to main courses. Below, you will find all the information you need to prepare this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized beets
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh dill (optional)
Instructions
- Start by washing the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can choose to peel them before or after cooking, depending on your preference.
- Place the cleaned beets in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the beets from the water and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel the skins off by rubbing them gently with your fingers.
- Slice the beets into thin rounds or wedges, depending on your preference.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, honey (or maple syrup), salt, black pepper, cloves, and allspice. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the ingredients to meld for about 5 minutes.
- In clean glass jars, layer the sliced beets and any fresh dill you wish to add. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are completely submerged.
- Seal the jars tightly and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. Afterward, refrigerate the jars to allow the flavors to develop over the next few days.
- These pickled beets are best served chilled and can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your Scandinavian pickled beets as a side dish, or incorporate them into salads, sandwiches, and more. They are sure to brighten up any plate and tantalize your taste buds.