Master the Art of Cooking Beets with These Easy Tips

Cooking beets is an art that’s not easy to master, but with the right tips and techniques, anyone can do it. Beets are healthy vegetables that are packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to any dish. Whether you’re roasting, boiling, grilling, or pickling them, there are easy ways to make sure your beets come out perfectly every time. To help you become a beet-cooking master, we’ve put together a list of tips and tricks that’ll take your beet game to the next level.

What are Beets and Their Nutritional Benefits?

Beets are an edible root vegetable that come in various red and golden hues. They have been grown and consumed since ancient times in the Mediterranean region. Beets are an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all of which are essential for good health. Here are some of the main nutritional benefits of beets:

Vitamins and minerals

Beets are rich in vitamins and minerals that play a vital role in maintaining good health. One cup of beets contains 3.8 grams of fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Beets are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate, which helps produce and maintain new cells in the body. Additionally, beets are also an excellent source of magnesium, which supports healthy bones, improves heart health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Antioxidants

Beets contain powerful antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and keep the body healthy. These antioxidants include betalains, which give beets their unique color and have been shown to help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease. Beets also contain flavonoids, which have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Other health benefits

There are many other potential health benefits associated with eating beets. Some studies have shown that beets can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve athletic performance. Other studies suggest that the nitrates found in beets can help improve blood flow to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.

How to Choose and Prepare Beets?

When it comes to choosing and preparing beets, there are certain steps that need to be followed to ensure that they are clean and ready for cooking. Here are some tips on how to choose and prepare beets:

Choosing Beets

When selecting beets, you want to choose firm, unblemished bulbs that are heavy for their size. Small beets are usually sweeter and more tender. If the beet greens are still attached, they should be vibrant and fresh-looking.

• Red Beets: These are the most commonly available beets and have a deep reddish-purple color.
• Golden Beets: These have a bright yellow color and are slightly sweeter than red beets.
• Chioggia Beets: These have a striped pink and white flesh and are also known as candy cane beets.

Washing Beets

Before cooking, beets need to be cleaned thoroughly. Start by removing the greens and then run the beets under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable scrubber to scrub the surface of the beets gently. If the beets are particularly dirty, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes to help remove any remaining dirt.

Baking and Roasting Beets

Baking and roasting are two popular methods for cooking beets that bring out their natural sweetness. To bake beets, wrap each one in aluminum foil and place them directly on the oven rack. Bake at 375°F for about an hour, until the beets are tender when poked with a fork. To roast beets, preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the beets into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized.

If you don’t have a lot of time to spare, you can also cook beets in the microwave. Simply wrap the beets in damp paper towels and microwave on high for about 8-10 minutes until tender.

What Are the Different Beets Varieties and How to Cook Them?

Beets come in different varieties, but not all of them are suitable for the same cooking methods. Here are the different beets varieties and how to cook them:

Golden Beets

Golden beets are sweeter than other beet varieties and have a milder flavor. They also have a bright yellow color that can add vibrancy to your dishes. Here are some ways to cook golden beets:

• Roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut off the greens and root end of the beets, then wrap them in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast the beets for about 45 minutes or until tender. Once it’s done, let it cool before peeling the skin off. You can eat it as is or slice it into cubes or wedges to add to your salad.
• Boiling: Boiling is the easiest way to cook golden beets. Simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the beets and let it cook for about 30 minutes or until tender. Once it’s done, peel the skin off and slice it into cubes or wedges.

Red Beets

Red beets are the most common beets variety and are known for their deep purple-red color. They have an earthy and sweet flavor. Here are two ways to cook red beets:

1. Steaming: Steaming is a healthier way to cook red beets since it retains most of the nutrients. To steam red beets, cut off the greens and root end of the beets, then place it in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Let it steam for about 30 minutes or until tender. Remove it from the steamer and let it cool, then peel the skin off and slice it into cubes or wedges.
2. Pressure Cooking: If you’re short on time, pressure cooking red beets is the fastest way to cook them. Cut the beets into quarters or eighths, then place it in a pressure cooker with some water or broth. Cook it on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes, then release the pressure naturally. Once it’s done, let it cool before peeling the skin off and slicing it into cubes or wedges.

Chioggia Beets

Chioggia beets are also called candy cane beets because of their pink and white stripes. They are slightly sweeter than red beets and have a mild flavor. Here are some ways to cook chioggia beets:

Method of Cooking	Duration
Grilling	15-20 minutes
Baking	45-50 minutes

Pro Tip: Wear gloves when handling beets to avoid staining your hands.

What Are the Different Beet-Based Dishes to Try?

If you are looking to incorporate more beets into your meals, there are plenty of delicious options. Here are some beet-based dish ideas:

1. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness and creates a tender texture. To make a roasted beet salad, simply toss roasted beets with arugula, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. This salad is perfect as a main course or side dish.

2. Beet Soup

Beet soup, also known as borscht, is a classic dish in Eastern European cuisine. This hearty soup is made with beets, potatoes, carrots, and onions, and is often served with a dollop of sour cream. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, and is perfect for a chilly evening.

3. Beet Chips

Beet chips are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato chips. To make them, simply thinly slice beets and toss them with olive oil and sea salt. Bake them in the oven until crispy and enjoy them as a snack or side dish.

4. Beet Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that can be easily customized with different ingredients. To make beet risotto, sauté diced beets with onions and garlic and then add arborio rice and vegetable broth. Finish with a bit of butter and grated Parmesan cheese for a decadent and flavorful dish.

No matter how you choose to cook beets, they are a nutritious and versatile addition to any meal. Give these beet-based dishes a try and discover a new favorite recipe!

What Are the Commonly Asked Queries About Beets?

Beets are a great addition to any healthy diet. They are delicious, packed with nutrients, and have a long shelf life. Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about beets:

What is the shelf life of beets?

Beets can last for up to two weeks when stored properly. Make sure to store them in a cool and dry place. You can also store them in the fridge to extend their shelf life.

What are the nutritional benefits of beets?

Beets are rich in fiber, folate, and vitamin C. They are also a great source of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure. Additionally, beets contain betaine which supports liver health. Drinking beet juice may also provide additional health benefits.

Can beet juice help improve athletic performance?

Beet juice contains nitrates which can help improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. This can lead to improved athletic performance. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of beet juice on athletic performance.

Are beets high in sugar?

Beets do contain natural sugars, but they are not considered a high-sugar food. One cup of cooked beets contains around 8 grams of sugar, which is about the same amount of sugar found in an apple.

Do beets have any potential side effects?

Some people may experience red or pink urine or stool after consuming beets. This is a harmless side effect and is caused by the presence of a pigment called betalain. Additionally, beets contain oxalates which can contribute to kidney stone formation in some individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones, it may be best to consume beets in moderation.

What Are the Health Risks of Consuming Beets?

While beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable, overconsumption of beets and beet-based products can pose certain health risks. Here are some of the most common concerns:

Kidney Stones

Beets are high in oxalates, a compound that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones or a family history of this condition, it’s a good idea to limit your intake of beets and other high-oxalate foods. Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help flush out any excess oxalates.

Blood Pressure Concerns

Beets are also high in nitrates, which can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure in some individuals. However, if you have low blood pressure or are taking medication to regulate your blood pressure, consuming too many nitrates (including those from beetroot juice or beet supplements) can cause your blood pressure to drop too low. Be sure to talk to your doctor before adding large amounts of beets or beet products to your diet.

Other Concerns

While less common, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to beets, including hives, itching, and swelling. Additionally, consuming large amounts of beets can sometimes cause beeturia—pink or red urine—which is harmless but can be alarming.

Thanks for reading!

We hope these tips helped you become a beet-cooking pro in no time! Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your own favorite way of preparing and serving this flavorful root vegetable. Check out our website again for more useful tips and delicious recipes.