When it comes to vibrant, healthy dishes, pickled beets stand out as an excellent choice. With their aromatic, colorful, and nutritious profile, they can elevate your dining experience significantly. Whether served as a side dish with meats, chicken, or fish, or enjoyed alone as a snack, pickled beets are sure to impress with their tangy flavor. Let’s dive into this simplified recipe that will introduce a new favorite to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients Needed- Beets: 2 medium-sized
- Onion: 1 medium onion
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Whole coriander seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
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Roasting the Beets
Begin by thoroughly washing the beets under cold water, ensuring that all dirt and impurities are removed. Pat dry using a paper towel, then wrap each beet in aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit), and place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 50 to 60 minutes until they are tender. You can check their doneness by piercing them with a fork; if it slides in easily, they’re ready. -
Cooling and Slicing
Once roasted, remove the beets from the oven and allow them to cool sufficiently until you can handle them comfortably. After cooling, peel the skin off using your fingers, or a paper towel can be helpful here. After peeling, cut the beets into stick-like pieces or slices, depending on your preference. -
Preparing the Onion
While the beets are cooling, take your onion and peel it. Slice it into thin half-moons, which will add a lovely crunch and subtle sweetness to the dish. -
Mixing the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced beets and onions. Next, add the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, whole coriander seeds, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. The mixture should have a lovely aroma with the tang from the vinegar balancing the earthiness of the beets. -
Marinating
Once mixed, transfer the beet and onion mixture into a glass container. Ensure the container is airtight by sealing it with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a piquant and delightful appetizer.
After marinating, your pickled beets are ready to serve! They can be enjoyed in many ways:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted or grilled meat, chicken, or fish. Their tartness provides a wonderful contrast to rich proteins, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- In Salads: Toss the pickled beets into salads for a pop of color and flavor. They pair exceptionally well with greens, nuts, and cheese.
- As a Snack: Enjoy them straight from the jar as a light, nutritious snack.
Beyond their tantalizing taste, beets are packed with health benefits. They are a great source of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants. Regular consumption of beets can have several health benefits, such as:
- Improved Digestion: The high dietary fiber content in beets promotes healthy digestion.
- Lower Blood Pressure: Studies indicate that beets can help lower blood pressure due to their high nitrate content.
- Increased Stamina: Athletes often consume beet juice because it can enhance athletic performance by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles.
Pickled beets are not just a colorful addition to your meals; they are a versatile, healthy choice that is easy to prepare. This simple recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time, providing you with a delicious, tangy dish that will enhance any meal. Whether on their own, as a side, or incorporated into salads, you’ll find these marinated beets to be a delightful culinary addition. So, gather your ingredients and get started on this quick and scrumptious pickled beet dish today!