Pickled Red Beet Eggs: A Tangy and Vibrant Snack
Pickled Red Beet Eggs: A Tangy and Vibrant Snack
Pickled red beet eggs hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings and holiday feasts. This vibrant and tangy snack has been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember. The striking pink color of the eggs, combined with the sweet and sour flavor of the beets, makes them a delightful addition to any table. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a flavorful snack, or a colorful addition to your salads, pickled red beet eggs are sure to impress. Let's dive into this easy and delicious recipe.
Recipe Overview
Name of the Recipe: Pickled Red Beet Eggs
Brief Description: This recipe involves pickling hard-boiled eggs in a mixture of red beet juice, vinegar, and spices. The result is a tangy, slightly sweet, and vibrantly colored egg that makes for a perfect snack or addition to various dishes.
Ingredients List
- 6 large eggs
- 2 medium red beets, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 bay leaf
Substitutions:
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute. For a different flavor profile, try adding spices like cloves, cinnamon sticks, or dill.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Eggs
Place the eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat, cover, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. Drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool completely. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beets
In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced beets, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, garlic cloves, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
Step 3: Combine Eggs and Beet Mixture
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the beet mixture cool slightly. Place the peeled eggs in a large, clean jar or a non-reactive container. Pour the warm beet mixture over the eggs, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, you can add more water to cover the eggs completely.
Step 4: Pickle the Eggs
Seal the jar or container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop and the eggs to take on the vibrant pink color. For best results, let the eggs pickle for 2-3 days before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Once pickled, the eggs are ready to enjoy. Slice them in half or quarters and serve as a snack, appetizer, or as a colorful addition to salads and platters.
Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Additional Time: 24 hours (pickling)
- Total Time: 24 hours 35 minutes
Serving Suggestions
This recipe makes 6 pickled red beet eggs. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- As a Snack: Enjoy the pickled eggs on their own or with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- In Salads: Slice the eggs and add them to salads for a pop of color and flavor.
- As an Appetizer: Serve halved pickled eggs on a platter with pickles, olives, and cheese.
- In Sandwiches: Add sliced pickled eggs to sandwiches or wraps for an extra tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips:
Store pickled red beet eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure the eggs are always submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain their flavor and color.
Reheating Instructions:
Pickled red beet eggs are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. There is no need to reheat them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought pickled beets?
Yes, you can use store-bought pickled beets if you’re short on time. Simply use the pickling liquid from the jar and add it to the boiled eggs. Make sure to add some of the beets as well for extra flavor and color.
How long should I let the eggs pickle?
For the best flavor and color, let the eggs pickle for at least 24 hours. However, pickling them for 2-3 days will give them a more intense flavor and vibrant color.
Can I add other vegetables to the pickling jar?
Absolutely! Adding sliced onions, carrots, or radishes can enhance the flavor and create a colorful mix of pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
Pickled red beet eggs are a delightful and tangy snack that brings both flavor and color to any dish. They’re easy to make and versatile, perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or serving as an appetizer. We hope you enjoy making and eating these pickled red beet eggs as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your results with us, leave a comment, and follow DelishDigs for more delicious recipes. Happy pickling!