Beets are a vegetable that is often overlooked in the grocery store, yet it is full of health benefits and versatile in many dishes. If you have never cooked with before, this article will provide you with some cooking tips, properties, uses, and some recipe ideas.

Properties of Beets

Beets are high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, fiber, potassium, manganese, folate, and iron. It’s no wonder why beets are often considered a superfood. Since beetroot is high in nitrates, it may also help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and enhance overall cardiovascular health.

Uses of Beets

Beets can be cooked in many ways, including roasting, boiling, pickling, and fermenting. Some people even eat beets raw. They are versatile and can be eaten as a snack, side dish, main entree, or even dessert. Beets are also used in smoothies and juices and can add a beautiful color to any dish.

How to Cook Beets

Before cooking beets, it is essential to clean them properly. First, trim off the greens and leave about an inch of the stems attached to the root. Be sure to wash them well, getting rid of any dirt or debris. Once you have cleaned the beets, you can prepare them to be cooked.

Boiling Beets: One of the easiest ways to cook beets is to boil them. For this method, put the beets in a large pot with enough water to cover the beets. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the beets are tender. Drain the beets and let them cool before removing the skin.

Roasting Beets: Roasting beets brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable and provides a delicious caramelization. To roast beets, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Cut beets in half and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the beets for 45-60 minutes or until they are tender.

Pickling Beets: If you like pickled vegetables, pickling beets is an excellent way to enjoy them. To pickle beets, start by washing them well and then trimming off the stems and roots. Boil the beets until tender, and then let them cool before removing the skin. Once the beets are cooled, slice them into rounds or quarters, and place them in a sterile glass jar. In a small saucepan, heat white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and any spices you prefer (such as cloves, cinnamon, or bay leaves). Bring the mixture to a boil and then pour over the beets. Seal the jar and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Recipe Ideas

One of the most popular ways to use beets is in a salad. Roasted beets pair well with goat cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette. Here’s a recipe for a simple Beet Salad:

Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium beets, washed and trimmed
– 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 bag of mixed greens
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– Balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Cut beets into small bite-size pieces and place them in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the beets for 45-60 minutes or until they are tender.
4. Let the beets cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
6. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and serve.

Another way to enjoy beets is in a soup. Here’s a recipe for Beet Borscht, a traditional soup in Russia and Eastern Europe:

Ingredients:
– 6 medium beets, washed and trimmed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 3 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper
– Sour cream and dill, for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and potatoes until they are slightly softened.
2. Add broth, beets, vinegar, sugar, and bay leaves.
3. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaves and let the soup cool to room temperature.
5. Blend the soup in a blender or food processor. You may need to do this in batches.
6. Return the soup to the pot and reheat.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill.

In conclusion, beets are a healthy and delicious vegetable that can be cooked in many ways. With these tips and recipe ideas, you can start incorporating beets into your diet and benefit from their nutrients and flavors.

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