Have you ever opened your refrigerator, craving a tangy, vibrant bite, only to be met with a jar of… well, just okay beets? It’s a common kitchen disappointment! Choosing the perfect jar of refrigerator pickled beets can feel like a gamble. You want that satisfying crunch, the perfect balance of sweet and sour, and a beautiful color that brightens any meal. But with so many brands and homemade recipes out there, how do you know which one will truly hit the spot?
Fear not, fellow food lovers! This post is your secret weapon. We’re diving deep into the wonderful world of refrigerator pickled beets, uncovering what makes a truly exceptional jar. You’ll learn exactly what to look for, from the quality of the beets themselves to the magic in the brine. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be a pro at spotting the best, ensuring every bite is a burst of delicious flavor.
Our Top 5 Refrigerator Pickled Beets Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Refrigerator Pickled Beets Detailed Reviews
1. Mrs. Wages Refrigerator Pickled Beets Mix 1.33 oz. (1 Pack)
Rating: 9.4/10
Want to add a tangy, delicious twist to your meals? Mrs. Wages Refrigerator Pickled Beets Mix makes it super simple! This little packet is your secret weapon for creating flavorful pickled beets right in your own kitchen. You get a perfect balance of sour and savory flavors that will make your favorite dishes even better. Plus, you don’t need a fancy water bath canner to enjoy these tasty treats.
What We Like:
- Easy to use for quick pickling.
- Creates a great sour and savory flavor.
- No water bath processing needed, which is a big plus!
- Makes enough for 6 pints of pickled beets.
- Uses natural flavors and no artificial colors or flavors.
- Kosher certified.
What Could Be Improved:
- The recipe requires adding your own vinegar and sugar, so you need those on hand.
- The ingredient list includes maltodextrin and soybean oil, which some people might prefer to avoid.
This mix is a fantastic shortcut for anyone who loves pickled beets. It’s a simple way to enjoy a homemade pickled treat without a lot of fuss.
2. Mrs. Wages Pickled Beets Refrigerator or Canning Mix
Rating: 8.9/10
Craving that tangy, delicious pickled beet flavor but don’t want the hassle of traditional canning? Mrs. Wages Pickled Beets Refrigerator or Canning Mix is your new best friend in the kitchen! This simple mix lets you transform fresh beets into perfectly pickled delights right in your refrigerator. With a fantastic balance of sour and savory notes, these pickled beets are a wonderful addition to any meal.
What We Like:
- Quick and Easy: You can make homemade pickled beets without a complicated water bath. Just mix, add beets, and refrigerate!
- Delicious Flavor: The mix provides a perfect sweet and sour taste that complements many dishes, from salads to sandwiches.
- Refrigerator Friendly: Store your pickled beets in the fridge for up to 6 months (unopened), and they’re ready to eat in just 24 hours.
- Kosher Certified: This product is Kosher certified and contains no artificial colors or flavors, making it a wholesome choice.
- Great Value: The value pack comes with 12 pouches, and each one makes 6 pints of pickled beets, offering a lot of flavor for your money.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Canning Option: While it mentions “canning mix,” the primary benefit highlighted is refrigerator pickles, so if you’re looking for shelf-stable, traditional canning, this might not be the main focus.
- Single Flavor Profile: This mix offers one specific flavor, so if you enjoy experimenting with different pickling spices, you’ll need to look elsewhere or add your own.
This mix makes enjoying homemade pickled beets incredibly simple. It’s a fantastic way to add a zesty kick to your meals without a lot of fuss.
3. LOVE BEETS Organic Perfectly Pickled Sliced Beets
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for a burst of flavor with LOVE BEETS Organic Perfectly Pickled Sliced Beets! These aren’t your average pickled beets. They come perfectly sliced and ready to eat, making them a super convenient way to add a delicious and healthy boost to your meals. Forget the mess and hassle of preparing fresh beets; these little gems are all about ease and taste.
What We Like:
- Super easy to use – just open the package and enjoy!
- They are already sliced, saving you prep time.
- Perfect for adding a tangy, sweet flavor to salads and sandwiches.
- Great for a quick and healthy snack.
- The organic quality means you’re eating good for you food.
- The 6.5 OZ size is just right for single servings or small families.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might find the pickled flavor a bit strong.
- The packaging, while convenient, creates some waste.
These pickled beets are a fantastic addition to any kitchen for anyone who loves a convenient and tasty way to eat their veggies. You’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again!
4. DEL MONTE HARVEST SELECTS Crinkle Cut Pickled Beets
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to add a burst of delicious flavor to your meals with DEL MONTE HARVEST SELECTS Crinkle Cut Pickled Beets! This 12-pack of 16 oz jars brings you the goodness of beets picked at their freshest. Each bite is packed with a wonderful taste. These beets are super easy to use since they are ready to eat right out of the jar.
What We Like:
- You get twelve 16 oz jars, so you won’t run out quickly.
- The beets are picked when they taste best and packed fresh.
- They use simple, natural ingredients in these pickled beets.
- These beets are Non-GMO* and have no artificial preservatives.
- The crinkle cut makes them perfect for salads or eating plain.
What Could Be Improved:
- The brine, while tasty, might be a little too sweet for some palates.
- Some jars can occasionally have a slightly softer texture than others.
Overall, DEL MONTE HARVEST SELECTS Crinkle Cut Pickled Beets offer a convenient and tasty way to enjoy a healthy vegetable. They are a fantastic addition to any kitchen for quick and flavorful meals.
5. Gefen Sliced Pickled Beets
Rating: 9.4/10
Gefen Sliced Pickled Beets are a fantastic way to add a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to your meals. This 16oz, 4-pack offers a generous supply of fresh and crisp beets, pickled to perfection. They are a versatile ingredient, ideal for topping salads, enhancing side dishes, or enjoying straight from the jar.
What We Like:
- The beets are wonderfully fresh and crisp, offering a satisfying bite.
- The sweet and sour pickling liquid creates a delicious flavor profile that complements many dishes.
- They are a convenient and colorful addition to any salad, instantly making it more appealing.
- Being non-GMO and certified Kosher, including for Passover, makes them accessible to a wider audience.
- The 4-pack provides good value and ensures you have plenty on hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some might find the sweetness a little strong if they prefer a more purely tart pickle.
- The slicing is consistent, but a slightly thicker cut could offer a more substantial texture for some preferences.
Overall, Gefen Sliced Pickled Beets are a delicious and convenient pantry staple. They bring a vibrant taste and color that enhances everyday meals with ease.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Savory & Sweet Refrigerator Pickled Beets
Why Refrigerator Pickled Beets?
Refrigerator pickled beets offer a delightful burst of tangy, sweet, and earthy flavor. They are a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed as a simple snack. Unlike traditional canning, refrigerator pickles are quick to make and store in your fridge, keeping them fresh and ready to eat. This guide will help you choose the best pickled beets for your taste buds.
Key Features to Look For
1. Flavor Profile
The best pickled beets have a balanced flavor. You want a good mix of sweet and tangy. Some are sweeter, while others are more vinegary. Consider if you prefer a stronger spice kick or a milder taste. Look for descriptions that mention vinegar, sugar, and sometimes spices like cloves or dill.
2. Beet Variety
Most pickled beets are made from red beets, giving them their signature vibrant color. However, you might find varieties made with golden beets, which offer a milder, less earthy flavor and a beautiful yellow hue. The size and cut of the beets also matter. Sliced, diced, or whole baby beets all offer a different eating experience.
3. Ingredients
Simple, high-quality ingredients are a sign of good pickled beets. Key ingredients usually include fresh beets, vinegar (often apple cider or white vinegar), sugar, and salt. Spices like peppercorns, mustard seeds, cloves, and bay leaves add extra flavor. Avoid products with artificial colors or excessive preservatives if possible.
Important Materials
The primary material is, of course, the beets themselves. Fresh, firm beets are crucial for good texture. The pickling liquid is made from vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. The quality of the vinegar impacts the tanginess, and the type of sugar influences the sweetness. Spices are added for aroma and taste.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Fresh, firm beets: This ensures a good crunch and texture.
- Natural ingredients: Using real spices and good quality vinegar makes a difference.
- Balanced flavor: A good ratio of sweet to tangy is key.
- Proper pickling time: Allowing enough time for the flavors to meld improves the taste.
Reducing Quality:
- Mushy beets: Overcooking or using old beets can result in a soft, unpleasant texture.
- Too much or too little vinegar/sugar: An unbalanced flavor can be off-putting.
- Artificial additives: Some people prefer to avoid artificial colors and preservatives.
- Short pickling time: If not pickled long enough, the flavors won’t develop well.
User Experience and Use Cases
Refrigerator pickled beets are incredibly versatile. Many people enjoy them straight from the jar as a healthy and flavorful snack. They are a popular addition to green salads, adding a sweet and tangy crunch. Pickled beets also pair wonderfully with cheese boards, charcuterie, and in sandwiches or wraps. Their vibrant color makes dishes visually appealing.
For a quick and easy meal, try adding them to potato salad or serving them alongside roasted meats. The bright flavor cuts through richness and adds an exciting dimension to any meal. Some adventurous cooks even use the pickling liquid in salad dressings or marinades.
When you open a jar, you should see bright, plump beet pieces submerged in a clear or slightly colored pickling liquid. The aroma should be inviting, with hints of vinegar and spices. The texture should be firm but tender, with a satisfying bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes pickled beets “refrigerator” pickles?
A: Refrigerator pickled beets are not processed with heat for long-term shelf stability like traditional canned pickles. They are made and stored in the refrigerator, which keeps them fresh for a shorter period but allows for a quicker pickling process and often a brighter flavor.
Q: How long do refrigerator pickled beets last?
A: Typically, refrigerator pickled beets can last for about 3-4 weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I make my own refrigerator pickled beets?
A: Yes! Making your own is surprisingly easy. You just need beets, vinegar, sugar, salt, and your favorite spices. There are many simple recipes available online.
Q: What is the best way to store them?
A: Store them in an airtight glass jar or container in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
Q: Are pickled beets healthy?
A: Beets are naturally nutritious, offering vitamins and fiber. Pickled beets can be a healthy snack, but be mindful of the sugar and salt content in some recipes or store-bought versions.
Q: What kind of vinegar is best for pickling beets?
A: Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar are commonly used and provide a good balance of tanginess. Some recipes might use red wine vinegar for a deeper flavor.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess?
A: Absolutely! When making your own, you can easily adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your preference.
Q: What can I serve pickled beets with?
A: They are great on salads, in sandwiches, with cheese, or as a side dish for roasted meats.
Q: Why are my pickled beets mushy?
A: Mushy beets usually happen if they were overcooked before pickling, if they were old, or if the pickling liquid was not acidic enough to preserve them properly.
Q: Do pickled beets stain?
A: Yes, the vibrant red color of beets can stain surfaces, clothing, and even your fingers, so it’s good to be careful when handling them.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!