Sugar-Free Pickled Beets
Description:
This sugar-free pickled beets recipe is a wholesome, low-carb alternative to traditional pickled beets. Made with apple cider vinegar, natural sweeteners, and warming spices, they’re tangy, subtly sweet, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (6–8 medium) fresh beets, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 cup water
- 1–2 tsp sugar substitute (erythritol, stevia, monk fruit – to taste)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for warmth)
- 2–3 whole cloves (optional, subtle spice)
- 1 bay leaf (optional, aromatic depth)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, enhances freshness)
Instructions:
- Cook the beets:
- Place beets in a pot, cover with water, and boil until fork-tender (30–40 min).
- Let cool, then peel and slice into rounds or wedges.
- Prepare pickling liquid:
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sweetener, salt, cinnamon stick, cloves, bay leaf, and lemon juice.
- Bring to a gentle boil, simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Pickle the beets:
- Place sliced beets in a sterilized jar or container.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over them, covering completely.
- Let cool, then refrigerate at least 24 hours before eating for full flavor.
Tips & Notes:
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Use gloves while peeling beets to avoid staining your hands.
- For a tangier version, use extra vinegar and skip the lemon.
- Add thinly sliced onions or garlic for more flavor.
Servings & Nutrition (Per 1/2 Cup Serving):
- Servings: ~6
- Calories: ~35
- Carbs: 6g (mainly from beets)
- Sugar: 4g (natural beet sugar, no added)
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, keto-friendly
Health Benefits:
- Beets: Rich in antioxidants, folate, potassium, and nitrates for heart health and detox.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Aids digestion, balances pH, supports blood sugar control.
- Cinnamon & Cloves: Anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting.
Q&A Section
Q: Can I can these for long-term storage?
A: This recipe is fridge-pickled. For canning, use proper sterilization and water-bath methods.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: Yes! As long as you moderate the beet portion and use a zero-carb sweetener.
Q: Can I use golden beets?
A: Absolutely. Golden beets are sweeter and less earthy – a great variation!
Q: Why add lemon juice?
A: For extra brightness and to balance the earthy beet flavor.
Want a spicy version or something with onion or fennel next? I can customize it for you!