Pickled Beets

by Roma

3 c. vinegar

2 c. water

2 1/2 c. sugar

2 5. whole allspice

1  three inch whole cinnamon stick

1/2 t. whole cloves

1 t. salt

cooked beets, sliced or chunked

Combine ingredients. Bring to a boil and simmer 15 minutes.  Add previously cooked and peeled beets and simmer 5 minutes.  Pack beets into hot sterilized jars.   Bring syrup to a boil, then pour over beets and seal immediately.  If preferred, spices can be tied in cloth during cooking, and taken out before packing in jars.  If there is not quite enough syrup to cover the last jar, add boiling vinegar.  Makes 4-5 quarts of pickled beets.

~It wouldn't be a proper family gathering without the pickled beets!  Even those who didn't especially care for pickles loved these beets.  You can use a similar recipe and substitute carrots or cauliflower for the beets.