If you’re looking for a colorful and healthy addition to your diet, beets are a great choice. They’re versatile and rich in nutrients, and with the right cooking technique, they can be absolutely delicious. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook beets to perfection, with tips and tricks for getting the best flavor and texture out of this fantastic vegetable.
Health benefits of beets
Beets are not only delicious and versatile, but they are also packed with amazing health benefits. Here are some of the top reasons to add beets to your diet:
Rich in Nutrients
Beets are a great source of several essential vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked beets contains:
- Calories: 58
- Protein: 2.2 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Vitamin C: 11% of the RDI
- Folate: 37% of the RDI
- Potassium: 9% of the RDI
- Manganese: 8% of the RDI
- Iron: 4% of the RDI
Improves Athletic Performance
If you need an extra boost during your workouts, beets might just do the trick. Studies have shown that consuming beets can improve athletic performance by increasing oxygen delivery and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Beets are a great natural way to lower your blood pressure. This is thanks to their high content of nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide – a vasodilator that relaxes and widens blood vessels.
May Lower Risk of Certain Cancers
Beets contain compounds called betalains, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. Some studies have indicated that consuming beets may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including colon and stomach cancer.
Choosing the Right Beets
When it comes to choosing beets, there are a few key things to look for in order to get the best flavor and texture. While it might be tempting to select the largest beets you can find, smaller beets are the better choice for cooking. They cook more evenly and have a sweeter, more tender flavor. Look for beets that are firm and smooth-skinned, with deep, rich color and no bruises or soft spots. Avoid any beets with hairy or shriveled skin, as these can be signs of age or damage that will affect the quality of the final dish.
The Importance of Freshness
One of the most important factors in choosing the right beets is freshness. Fresh beets have a lovely, earthy flavor that simply can’t be matched by older, more woody beets. When shopping for beets, look for those that have their leafy greens still attached. This indicates that they were recently harvested, and the greens themselves are a tasty addition to salads or sautéed dishes. If you can’t find fresh beets with greens, be sure to use your beets within a few days of purchase, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
Preparing beets for cooking
If you’re a beet lover, you know the importance of preparing them the right way to highlight their natural sweetness and texture. Here’s how you can do it:
Washing beets
Start by washing the beets thoroughly under cool running water. Use a vegetable brush to clean off any dirt or debris from the surface. Make sure to wash each beet separately and avoid using soap or vinegar, as this may affect their taste.
Trimming beets
Cut off the tops and roots of the beets using a sharp knife. Make sure to leave about an inch of the stem to prevent the beets from bleeding during cooking. The roots may be tough and difficult to cut, so use a sturdy knife or a pair of kitchen scissors to do the job.
Peeling beets (optional)
Peeling beets is a matter of personal preference. If you decide to peel them, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin. Alternatively, you can roast or boil the beets with their skin on and peel them afterwards.
Whichever way you choose to prepare your beets, remember that they can be sliced, diced, roasted, boiled, or steamed to your liking. Enjoy!
Pro tips for cooking beets
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be boiled, roasted, steamed, grilled, or even eaten raw. However, to make the most out of their flavor, texture, and nutrients, you need to know some pro tips and tricks that will help you cook beets to perfection. Here are some tips to take note of:
Choose the freshest beets
The quality of your beets will largely affect the taste and texture of the final dish, so it’s important to choose the freshest beets available. When you’re in the grocery store or at the market, look for beets that are firm, plump, and have smooth skin. Avoid any that are wrinkled, soft, or have cuts or blemishes, as these are signs that they are already past their prime.
Prep your beets
Before you start cooking your beets, you’ll need to prepare them properly. Begin by trimming off the greens and the tails, leaving about an inch of the stem intact. You can save the greens for other dishes, such as salads or sautés. Then, rinse your beets thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris. You can peel your beets if you prefer, but it’s not necessary, especially if you’re roasting or grilling them.
Season your beets
Seasoning your beets can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic, cumin, paprika, thyme, or rosemary, depending on your preference. You can also add oil, vinegar, lemon, or honey to your beets to enhance their natural sweetness and acidity. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much seasoning can overpower the taste of your beets.
Cook your beets correctly
The cooking time and method for your beets will depend on your recipe and personal preference. Boiling, steaming, and roasting are some of the most common methods for cooking beets. Boiling is the fastest method, but it may cause your beets to lose some of their nutrients and flavor. Steaming is a gentler method that helps retain the nutrients and flavor, but it may take longer. Roasting is a great method for caramelizing the natural sugars in your beets, resulting in a sweet and crispy texture. Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on your beets and adjust the time as necessary, so they don’t become too mushy or too crispy.
Experiment with different cooking techniques
While boiling, steaming, and roasting are the most common methods for cooking beets, there are plenty of other ways to prepare this versatile vegetable. You can grill your beets for a smoky and charred flavor, or pulse them in a food processor for a silky and creamy dip or hummus. You can also pickle your beets for a tangy and crunchy snack or salad topping. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out new methods to see what works best for you.
Storing and serving beets
If you are wondering how to cook beets to perfection and want to ensure that they stay fresh for longer, then you need to know the best way to store them. Cooked beets can last up to 5 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container. When removing the beetroot from the container, be sure to use a clean spoon to avoid contamination. You can even freeze the cooked beets if you’re not planning to use them immediately.
Serving options for cooked beets
Cooked beets are versatile and can be used in various recipes. Here are some serving options:
- Beetroot salad: Toss sliced beets with your favorite salad dressing and add some leafy greens to create a refreshing and nutritious salad.
- Roasted beets: Coat the beets with a little olive oil and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. You can add herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
- Beet soup: Blend cooked beets with some vegetable stock and seasonings to make a velvety soup that is perfect for chilly days.
- Beet hummus: Pulse beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor to make a colorful and tasty dip that goes well with pita bread or crackers.
Beet as an ingredient in various recipes
Aside from the serving options mentioned above, cooked beets are also great as an ingredient in other recipes. Here are some ideas:
- Beetroot risotto: Add diced beets to your favorite risotto recipe to add a pop of color and flavor.
- Beetroot pasta: Puree beets and mix with flour, eggs, and salt to create a pink-hued dough that can be used to make homemade pasta.
- Beetroot burger: Mash cooked beets and beans together and form patties that can be grilled or pan-fried. This is a good option for a vegetarian or vegan burger.
Cooked beets have a unique earthy taste and a vibrant color that makes them a great addition to any meal. Experiment with different ways to serve and incorporate them into your recipes to enjoy their health benefits.
FAQs about cooking beets
Beets, also known as beetroot, are a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal. However, cooking them can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Here are some common questions about cooking beets, along with their answers.
How do I prevent beets from bleeding?
One of the biggest challenges when cooking beets is preventing them from bleeding. To do this, start by washing the beets thoroughly and removing any dirt or debris. Then, chop off the stems and roots, but don’t peel them. Next, place the beets in a pot of boiling water and cook them until they’re tender. Once they’re cooked, you can remove the skin by rubbing it off with a paper towel. This should prevent the beets from bleeding.
Can I cook beets in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook beets in the microwave. To do this, start by washing the beets and poking holes in them with a fork. Then, place the beets on a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave the beets for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re tender. You can then remove the skin and slice the beets as desired.
How can I tell when beets are done?
The best way to tell if beets are done is by poking them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily and the beets are tender, they’re done cooking. Depending on the size of the beets, they can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour or more to cook, so be patient and keep checking them until they’re done.
What are some creative ways to cook beets?
Beets are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some creative ideas to try:
- Roasted beets with goat cheese and honey
- Beet chips (thinly sliced and baked with olive oil and salt)
- Beet hummus (made with pureed beets instead of chickpeas)
- Beet risotto
Can I freeze cooked beets?
Yes, you can freeze cooked beets. To do this, start by cooking the beets according to your preferred method (boiled, roasted, etc.). Once they’re cooked, let them cool to room temperature. Then, peel and slice the beets as desired and place them in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. Seal the container or bag and place it in the freezer. Cooked beets will last in the freezer for up to 8 months.
What are the health benefits of beets?
Beets are a nutritious vegetable that are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re a good source of fiber, folate, potassium, and vitamin C. Beets have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve athletic performance, and reduce inflammation. They’re also low in calories and can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Cook Your Beets and Enjoy Delicious Meals
So there you have it. Cooking beets to perfection doesn’t have to be hard. By following these simple steps, you can have delicious beets on your table in no time. Experiment with different recipes and find the one that works best for you. Don’t forget to add your favorite seasonings and toppings to spice it up. Thanks for reading, and we hope you visit again soon for more exciting recipes!
How to cook beets to perfection
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets trimmed and peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Wash the beets and trim off any leafy greens or stems. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the skin from the beets. Cut the beets into small pieces, approximately 1/2 inch cubes.
- In a large bowl, toss the beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the beets out onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast the beets in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized. Check and stir the beets every 15 minutes to make sure they cook evenly.
- Once the beets are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
