Beets, those earthy and vibrant root vegetables, are packed with nutrients and offer a unique, slightly sweet flavor. But knowing how to best prepare them can be a bit tricky. This guide will walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect beet to serving up a delicious dish.
Selecting and Storing Beets
Before you even think about peeling and chopping, you need to choose the right beets. Look for beets that are firm, smooth, and free from bruises or soft spots. Smaller beets tend to be more tender. Avoid beets with cracks or signs of sprouting.
Storing Your Beet Harvest:
- Refrigerator: Unwashed beets can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Root Cellar (if you have one): This is ideal for long-term storage, offering the best conditions for keeping your beets fresh for months.
Cleaning and Preparing Beets for Cooking
This is where things can get a little messy, but don't worry, we'll cover the best techniques for minimal cleanup.
1. Washing:
Scrub the beets thoroughly under cold running water using a vegetable brush to remove any clinging dirt or soil.
2. Trimming:
Trim the beet greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached. The greens are edible too – more on that later!
3. Peeling (Optional):
You can cook beets with or without the skin. Leaving the skin on retains more nutrients, but some people prefer the smoother texture of peeled beets. If peeling, you can do this before or after cooking. After cooking, the skin will slip off much more easily.
Cooking Methods:
There are several ways to cook beets, each resulting in a slightly different texture and flavor.
1. Boiling:
- Place the beets in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a tablespoon of salt (this helps keep the color vibrant).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the beets. Smaller beets will cook faster.
- Test for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be easily pierced.
- Drain and let cool slightly before handling.
2. Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap the beets individually in foil. Add a tablespoon of water to each packet to prevent them from drying out.
- Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Larger beets may require longer cooking time.
- Let cool slightly before handling.
3. Steaming:
- Place the beets in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover and steam for 30-45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Microwaving:
- Wash and trim beets, then pierce several times with a fork.
- Place the beets on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and microwave.
What to Do With Cooked Beets
Once cooked, you'll be amazed at the versatility of beets.
1. Beetroot Salad:
A classic! Combine cooked beets with other ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, orange segments, and a vinaigrette dressing.
2. Beetroot Hummus:
Roasted beets add a beautiful color and earthy sweetness to hummus.
3. Beetroot Soup:
A vibrant and healthy soup that's perfect for a chilly day.
4. Pickled Beets:
A tangy and delicious way to preserve your beet harvest.
5. Beetroot Relish:
Add this homemade relish to sandwiches, burgers or enjoy it on its own.
Don't Forget the Greens!
Beet greens are incredibly nutritious and shouldn't be discarded. They can be cooked just like spinach or chard, sautéed, steamed, or added to salads.
Tips for Success:
- Wear gloves: Beet juice can stain your hands.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked beets will become mushy.
- Experiment with flavors: Beets pair well with many different herbs and spices.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the delicious and healthy benefits of beets. Happy cooking!
