Introduction
Classic Pickled Beet and Onion Combo is a vibrant and tangy dish that perfectly balances the earthiness of beets with the sharpness of red onions. This timeless recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the rich, deep flavors of beets enhanced by a zesty pickling brine infused with apple cider vinegar, garlic, and spices. Whether served as a side dish, added to salads, or enjoyed on its own, these pickled beets and onions offer a burst of color and flavor that complements any meal. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this delicious and versatile pickle that will brighten up your culinary repertoire.
What You’ll Need
Essential Equipment
To prepare this delicious Classic Pickled Beet and Onion Combo, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Medium saucepan: For making the pickling brine and simmering the beets and onions.
- Cutting board and knife: For slicing the cooked beets and red onion.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Sterilized jar with lid: For storing the pickled beets and onions.
- Tongs: For handling the hot beets and onions.
Key Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium beets, cooked, peeled, and sliced: The main component, offering a sweet, earthy flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the beets.
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar: Provides acidity and a fruity undertone to the pickling brine.
- 1/2 cup water: Dilutes the vinegar for a balanced brine.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the acidity and enhance the natural flavors of the beets and onions.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and helping to preserve the pickles.
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns: Adds a subtle, peppery spice to the brine.
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds: Introduces a mild, tangy flavor and a bit of texture to the pickles.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Brings a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the beets.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the brine with a rich, savory flavor.
Ingredient Preparation
Proper preparation of the ingredients ensures that the beets and onions are flavorful and perfectly pickled.
Preparing the Beets and Onions
- Cook the Beets: If you haven’t already, cook the beets by boiling or roasting them until tender. Once cooled, peel the beets and slice them into even rounds or wedges. This step can be done ahead of time to save preparation time.
- Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion to ensure it pickles quickly and evenly. The thin slices will absorb the flavors of the brine and provide a pleasant crunch.
Instructions
Making the Pickling Brine
- Prepare the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, whole black peppercorns, mustard seeds, dried dill, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar and salt. Bring the brine to a boil over medium heat, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined. The brine should be fragrant and flavorful, with a balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice.
- Add the Beets and Onions: Carefully add the sliced beets and onions to the boiling brine. Ensure the vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid to allow them to absorb the flavors evenly.
Simmering and Cooling
- Simmer the Vegetables: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the beets and onions are slightly tender. Simmering allows the flavors of the brine to penetrate the vegetables, enhancing their taste and texture.
- Cool the Mixture: After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let the pickled beet and onion mixture cool to room temperature. Cooling helps the flavors meld together and prepares the pickles for storage.
Storing the Pickles
- Transfer to a Jar: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully pack the cooled beets and onions into a sterilized jar, ensuring they are packed tightly. Pour the remaining brine over the vegetables, making sure they are fully covered with liquid.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the jar with a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a more flavorful pickle. The pickled beets and onions will keep in the refrigerator for up to a month, offering a vibrant and tangy addition to your meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serving
Classic Pickled Beet and Onion Combo is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Serve these pickled vegetables alongside roasted meats, add them to salads, or enjoy them as a tangy topping for sandwiches and burgers. The bright color and bold flavor make them a standout addition to any plate.
Storage
Store the pickled beets and onions in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed jar. They will keep well for up to a month, offering a convenient and flavorful accompaniment to your dishes whenever you need it.
Variations
Customizing Your Pickles
This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit different tastes:
- Spicy Pickles: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the brine for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or fresh dill for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: Add a few slices of lemon or orange to the brine for a citrusy note that complements the earthiness of the beets.
FAQs
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with red wine vinegar or white vinegar, depending on your preference. Each type of vinegar will impart a slightly different flavor to the pickles.
Do I need to peel the beets?
Yes, peeling the beets after cooking is recommended to remove the tough outer skin and ensure a smooth texture.
Can I make this recipe with raw beets?
Cooking the beets before pickling helps them absorb the brine more effectively and results in a tender texture. However, if you prefer a crunchier pickle, you can use raw beets, but they will need a longer pickling time to soften.
What can I do with the leftover pickling brine?
The leftover brine can be reused for pickling other vegetables, or it can be added to salad dressings or marinades for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Classic Pickled Beet and Onion Combo is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings together the earthy sweetness of beets with the sharp tang of red onions in a flavorful pickling brine. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for those who love pickled vegetables or want to try something new in their culinary adventures. With its rich colors and bold flavors, this pickle is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy the satisfying crunch and tang of homemade pickled beets and onions!