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Grandma’s pickled beets Recipe

a jar of homemade pickled beets _ These sweet and tangy pickled beets are inspired by my grandmother, who made the best jars without ever writing anything down. After years of tasting and testing, this recipe comes closest to the ones I grew up loving — simple, flavorful, and full of nostalgia.
These sweet and tangy pickled beets are inspired by my grandmother, who made the best jars without ever writing anything down. After years of tasting and testing, this recipe comes closest to the ones I grew up loving — simple, flavorful, and full of nostalgia.
Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Serving Size 8 servings

Equipment

  • Storage Jars or Containers

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium sized beets
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • cup sugar
  • 1 tsp coarse salt
  • tsp dry ground mustard
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 sprig of thyme

Instructions

How to make pickled beets

    Prepare the Jars & Lids

    • - Disinfect jars and lids by running them through the dishwasher (no soap) on a regular or sanitizing cycle. Keep the jars inside until ready to use to retain warmth.
    • - Alternatively, simmer lids and rings in a pot of water for 10 minutes. Use a magnetic canning tool to safely remove them when needed.

    Cook the Beets

    • - Place unpeeled beets in a large pot and boil until tender (about 55 minutes or longer, depending on size).
    • - Once cooked, transfer them to a sink filled with cold water.

    Peel & Slice the Beets

    • - Wearing gloves (to avoid staining), peel the cooled beets using a paring knife or by scrubbing with the rough side of a sponge.
    • - Slice the beets and place them in a clean bowl.

    Make the Brine

    • - In a medium pot, combine:
    • - 1 cup apple cider vinegar
    • - 1 cup water
    • - ⅓ cup sugar
    • - 1 tsp coarse salt
    • - ⅓ tsp dry ground mustard
    • - 2 bay leaves
    • - 1 sprig of thyme
    • - Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

    Jar the Beets

    • - Pack sliced beets and 5 whole peppercorns into a sterilized 1-liter jar.
    • - Pour the warm brine over the beets, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
    • - Loosely fasten the lid and let sit at room temperature for a few hours before tightening the seal and refrigerating.

    Storage & Serving

    • - Refrigerated beets will keep for up to 6 weeks.
    • - Enjoy as a snack, in salads, or as a tangy side dish!

    Notes

    Variations & Tips
    - Beet varieties: Red, golden, or Chioggia beets all work beautifully.  
    - Vinegar swaps: Substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or rice wine vinegar.  
    - Customize flavors: Experiment with spices like cinnamon, dill, red pepper flakes, or add garlic/onion for extra depth.