How to Eat Beets: Preparing, Recipes, and Other Ideas

Introduction

Eating beets can be intimidating for those who are unfamiliar with them. From the bright red color to their earthy flavor, beets have a unique taste and texture that can be off-putting to some. But with the right preparation and knowledge, beets can be an incredibly nutritious and versatile addition to any meal. This article will provide an overview of how to prepare and eat beets, as well as recipes for salads, soups, and other dishes.

Learn About Different Types of Beets

When it comes to buying beets, there are many different types to choose from. Red beets are the most popular variety, but there is also yellow, white, golden, and Chioggia beets. Depending on the type of beet, they can range in flavor from sweet and earthy to bitter and tart. It’s important to know what type of beet you’re buying so you can adjust your recipe accordingly.

Nutritionally speaking, all types of beets are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, manganese, and potassium. They also contain dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and heart health. In addition, beets are low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for people trying to lose weight.

Prepare Fresh Beets

Once you have purchased your beets, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. The first step is to clean them. Start by scrubbing the beets gently with a vegetable brush under running water. Then, cut off the greens (these can be saved and cooked separately) and trim the root end. Finally, peel the skin off with a paring knife or vegetable peeler.

Next, chop the beets into cubes or slices depending on how you want to use them. Beets can be roasted, steamed, boiled, or even eaten raw. To roast beets, preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place the chopped beets onto the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, then bake for 30-40 minutes until tender. To steam beets, place them in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover. Steam for 10 minutes until tender.

Create Delicious Salads

Beets are a great addition to salads. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also provide a unique flavor and a good dose of nutrients. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

• Roasted Beet Salad: Toss together roasted beets, feta cheese, apples, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Arugula and Beet Salad: Combine arugula, roasted beets, goat cheese, and a lemon-garlic dressing.
• Shaved Beet Salad: Slice beets into thin strips and combine with spinach, oranges, almonds, and a honey-mustard dressing.

Make Beet Soups

Beets make a great base for soups. Try these recipes for a hearty and flavorful meal:

• Borscht: Simmer beets, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic in a beef broth. Top with a dollop of sour cream.
• Roasted Beet Soup: Roast beets with olive oil, then puree with vegetable stock, yogurt, and fresh herbs.
• Creamy Beet Bisque: Cook beets until tender, then puree with coconut milk, curry powder, and ginger.

Add Beets to Other Dishes

Beets can be added to sandwiches, wraps, pasta dishes, pizzas, and savory pies for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Sandwiches: Slice beets thinly and layer between slices of bread with hummus, goat cheese, and arugula.
• Wraps: Spread hummus on a wrap, top with roasted beets, avocado, and sprouts.
• Pasta Dishes: Toss cooked pasta with roasted beets, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette.
• Pizza: Top pizza dough with mozzarella cheese, beets, and arugula.
• Savory Pies: Line a pie crust with roasted beets and top with ricotta cheese and thyme.

Conclusion

Beets are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can incorporate beets into salads, soups, and other dishes for a flavorful and healthy meal.