Beet Wine Recipe
Overview
This Beet Wine recipe, originating from an old Lithuanian cookbook, is a unique and traditional preparation that requires patience due to its extended fermentation and standing times. It’s categorized as Low Protein, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, and is noted for its health benefits with keywords like “Low Cholesterol”, “Healthy”, “Weeknight”, and “Easy”.
Ingredients
- 10 beets, peeled and quartered
- 1 gallon water
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cake yeast
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 4627.7
- Fat: 1.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 465.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 1187g
- Fiber: 11.5g
- Sugar: 1172.8g
- Protein: 9.9g
Yield
- Recipe Yield: 1 gallon
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 264 hours (includes standing time)
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 265 hours
Instructions
- Prepare Beets: Pare and quarter the beets.
- Boil Beets: Place the beets in a pot with water and boil until tender.
- Let Stand: Allow the mixture to stand for 24 hours.
- Prepare Liquid: Remove the beets and add enough water to make one full gallon of liquid.
- Add Sugar and Pepper: Stir in the sugar and pepper. Boil the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Strain: Strain the mixture through a cloth into a clean clay crock or fermentation vessel.
- Prepare Yeast: Spread the yeast on a slice of thoroughly dried bread.
- Fermentation: Place the yeast-covered bread in the lukewarm liquid and let it ferment for 10 days.
- Bottle: After fermentation, bottle the beet wine.
- Storage: Store the bottled wine with loose corks (do not cork tightly).
Tips for Making Beet Wine
- Sanitation: Ensure all equipment and utensils are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent contamination during fermentation.
- Fermentation: Keep the fermentation vessel in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and drafts.
- Tasting: Taste the beet wine periodically during fermentation to monitor its flavor development.
- Maturation: Allow the bottled wine to mature for a few weeks before enjoying to enhance its flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing beverage.
- Pair with light appetizers or cheese platters.
- Enjoy as a unique and health-conscious alternative to traditional wines.
Conclusion
This Beet Wine recipe not only preserves a piece of Lithuanian culinary heritage but also offers a healthy, low-cholesterol beverage option. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process make it accessible for both beginners and experienced home brewers alike. Embrace the 11-day journey of fermentation, and savor the delightful results of this homemade beet wine.
