How To Pickle Beet Greens

Preserving Beet Greens: A Delicious Pickling Recipe

Beet greens are often overlooked, but they are a nutritious and flavorful part of the beet plant that should not go to waste. One delicious way to preserve beet greens is by pickling them. Pickled beet greens make a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards. Plus, pickling is a great way to extend the shelf life of this leafy green, allowing you to enjoy them for months to come.

Here’s a simple guide to pickling beet greens:

1. Choose Fresh Beet Greens: When selecting beet greens for pickling, look for fresh, vibrant leaves that are free from wilting or yellowing. If you have just harvested beets from your garden, you can use the greens right away for pickling.
2. Wash and Prepare the Greens: Start by washing the beet greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off any tough stems and discard any damaged leaves. Then, blanch the greens in boiling water for a few minutes and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step helps to retain the vibrant color of the greens.
3. Prepare the Pickling Solution: In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and vinegar. Add sugar, salt, and your choice of pickling spices such as mustard seeds, peppercorns, or garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Pack the Greens in Jars: Once the pickling solution is ready, pack the blanched beet greens into clean, sterilized jars. You can layer the greens in the jars, adding a few slices of onion or garlic between the layers for extra flavor.
5. Add the Pickling Solution: Carefully pour the hot pickling solution over the beet greens, ensuring that the greens are completely submerged. Leave a bit of headspace at the top of the jar before sealing them with lids.
6. Allow the Flavors to Develop: Place the sealed jars in the refrigerator and let the flavors develop for at least a week before enjoying the pickled beet greens. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they will become.

Now that you have pickled your beet greens, you can enjoy them in a variety of ways. Add them to salads for a tangy kick, use them as a flavorful topping for sandwiches and wraps, or serve them alongside your favorite cheese and charcuterie for a delicious and colorful addition to a grazing board.

Pickled beet greens are not only a tasty condiment, but they also provide a nutritional boost. Beet greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as important minerals like potassium and iron. By pickling them, you can preserve their nutritional benefits and enjoy them throughout the year.

So, the next time you find yourself with a bunch of fresh beet greens, don’t let them go to waste. Instead, try pickling them using this simple and flavorful recipe. You’ll be amazed at how a humble bunch of greens can be transformed into a delicious and versatile condiment that will elevate your meals.