Grandma Jackie's Pickled Beets

Recipe View 30 mins Sterilize five 1-pint canning jars, along with lids and rings, according to standard canning procedures. Keep jars hot until ready to fill. (Approximately 30 minutes)

Recipe View 25 mins Place beets in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until beets are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork, about 25-35 minutes. Drain, reserving 2 1/2 cups of the cooking liquid. Allow beets to cool slightly.

Recipe View 20 mins Once the beets are cool enough to handle, peel them and trim off the ends. Cut into wedges or chunks, if desired. Pack the prepared beets into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2-inch headspace. (Approximately 20 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins In a large saucepan or pot, combine sugar, vinegar, pickling salt, lemon juice, clove oil, and the reserved 2 1/2 cups of beet cooking liquid. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. (Approximately 10 minutes)

Recipe View 15 mins Carefully pour the hot brine over the beets in the jars, maintaining 1/2-inch headspace. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars or using a non-metallic utensil. Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until fingertip-tight. (Approximately 15 minutes)

Recipe View 2 hrs Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust processing time according to your altitude). Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface. As the jars cool, you should hear a popping sound as the lids seal. (Approximately 2 hours)

Recipe View Once the jars are completely cooled, check the seals. If a lid flexes when pressed, it is not properly sealed and should be refrigerated immediately and consumed within a few weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Allow the pickled beets to mellow for at least a week before enjoying to allow the flavors to fully develop.