Quick Pickled Eggs and Beets

Ingredients and Weight:

• Eggs: 8 (medium size)
• Beets: 500 grams (fresh, trimmed and peeled)
• White vinegar: 2 cups
• Water: 3 cups
• Salt: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 1/4 cup
• Spices (optional): chili flakes, fresh herbs like dill or rosemary, garlic cloves
• Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (for greasing the container)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus overnight for pickling)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot, bring vinegar, water, salt, and sugar to a boil. Add optional spices.
2. Meanwhile, hard-boil the eggs (submerge them in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, then cool them in cold water). Peel the eggs.
3. Slice the beets into thin rounds.
4. Grease a container (e.g., glass jar or ceramic bowl) with vegetable oil. Place the beets at the bottom of the container.
5. Top with the boiled eggs. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the eggs and beets. Ensure everything is covered with the liquid.
6. Cover the container and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (based on average egg and beet nutrition facts)
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 16g

Dish Characteristics:

• Quick and easy to prepare with readily available ingredients.
• The pickled eggs and beets create a unique flavor combination.
• This dish offers a combination of texture with the softness of eggs and crunchiness of beets.
• It is a great appetizer or side dish for any gathering.

User Comments:

1. "The flavors were amazing! The pickling liquid was well-balanced and enhanced the taste of both eggs and beets."
2. "I love how this dish looks as well as its flavor. It's a great addition to any meal."
3. "The texture of the beets was perfect – not too soft and not too crunchy."
4. "I added some chili flakes for a kick of heat and it really made the dish more enjoyable."
5. "Great dish for a summer picnic – the pickled flavors were refreshing."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure to use fresh ingredients for best results.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing chili flakes or other spices according to preference.
• Be careful not to overcook the eggs as they may become rubbery. Hard-boil them just until they are set but still tender.