All in a pickle

Credit: clem-onojeghuo-99391-unsplash.jpg

We had a fantastic crop of beetroot this year. In fact it was the only thing that grew after the puppy bounded over the veggie patch and dug most things up! 😂

So, what to do with it...

Well, R is a big pickled beetroot fan, although I have never pickled anything in my life, so here goes...

I basically found a recipe for a HUGE amount and cut it down to fit. I split my crop into two so that I can also make beetroot marmalade (watch this space...).

To make two large jars of Pickled Beetroot, you will need:

500g fresh beetroot, washed and stalks removed
150ml white vinegar
45g caster sugar. I always use golden - it didn't affect the colour at the end.
Pinch of salt
3-4 cloves per jar.

Prior to cooking, make sure you sterilize your jars. I put mine in a hot oven for up to 30 mins, then pack them straight from the oven.

1. Start by cooking the beetroot, covered with water, for 15 mins. 

2. Remove beets, but save the water! 

3. Allow to cool slightly before peeling and slicing. Just a note... We grew Italian beetroot, which is striped red and white. As I was peeling I noticed that my hands didn't stain! Not sure if this is the type of beetroot or not, but worth a mention. Even my chopping board isn't marked.

4. In a pan, bring to the boil the vinegar, sugar salt and cloves, along with 80ml of the beet cooking water. 

5. Place the sliced beet into the two jars, and pour over the vinegar (make sure you divide the cloves). 

6. Seal the jars and return them to the oven for 15 mins. This will help to finalise the seal (you know when you can test jars with the pop up in the lid, well this re-seals and sucks it back down until it is opened!). Check the jar has sealed, then allow to cool before storing.

I am so looking forward to serving our home grown beetroot at Christmas!

And so easy... why have I not done this before?!

I've now got the urge to do more pickling, so ordered spices for onions. I also have a sauerkraut jar that mum bought me last year... maybe it's time to get that out too.

Do you make your own pickles and have an unusual recipe or tips for the extra ordinary? I'd love to hear! Get in touch

Happy pickling

Deb x