Scrub beets and trim tops to 1 in. Place in a Dutch oven; add water to cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Since beets vary in size, they may take varying times to cook. Remove them individually as needed. When cooked, drain (remove from water), let cool, and Peel beets and slice; place in a bowl and set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, cloves, allspice, and salt. Bring to a boil; boil 5 minutes. Pour over beets. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Drain before serving.