How to Cook Beets

How to Cook Beets?

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Cooking beets can feel like a minor victory in the kitchen, especially if you are new to them. So, how to cook beets without feeling overwhelmed? I have been there, standing in the grocery aisle staring at these earthy-red gems, wondering what on Earth they were and how to make something delicious out of them. Beets are incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. Whether you are roasting, boiling, or even pickling them, they can bring a splash of vibrancy to your meals.

Understanding Beets

Before we jump into how to cook beets, let’s take a moment to know these quirky veggies. Beets belong to the chard family, and believe me, they have personality! You may encounter golden beets, candy cane (also known as Chioggia) beets, and the classic deep red ones. They all have their specific flavors and sweetness, but they are all pretty great.

Fun Fact

Did you know that beets can stain everything? I once made the mistake of wearing a white T-shirt the day I prepared beets. Spoiler alert: I am now the proud owner of a very pink shirt.

How to Select Beets

Choosing the right beets is essential for whipping up a delightful dish. Here’s what to look for:

  • Size: Smaller beets tend to be sweeter and are perfect for roasting. Leave the big ones for other methods.
  • Skin: Look for smooth, unblemished skin. Wrinkles and soft spots mean they’re past their prime.
  • Greens: If they come with greens attached, they should be crisp and fresh. If they look yellow instead of vibrant green, steer clear.

How to Clean Beets

Once you have picked out your beets, you need to clean them. Here is my simple cleaning process:

  1. Rinse them under cool water. Use your hands or a vegetable brush to scrub off any dirt.
  2. Trim the greens, leaving about an inch to prevent bleeding.
  3. No need to peel them yet. Trust me, cooking with the skins on helps to keep the sweetness locked in.
See also  Mexican Green Beans Recipe

How to Cook Beets

Now that we have clean beets ready to go, let’s talk about how to cook beets. I know that sounds like a lot of work, but I promise it’s worth it.

Boiling Beets

One of the simplest ways to prepare beets is boiling. Here’s how:

  1. Place the cleaned beets into a pot and cover them with water.
  2. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes. The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the beets.
  3. Use a fork or knife to check for tenderness. If it slides in easily, they are done!
  4. Once cooked, let them cool, and then peel the skin off using your fingers or a paper towel. It should come off without too much fuss.

Roasting Beets

Roasted beets bring out the natural sweetness and are absolutely divine. Here’s my go-to method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Wrap each beet in aluminum foil tight enough to keep the steam in, but not too tight that it bursts.
  3. Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on size.
  4. Once they are fork-tender, unwrap them and let them cool before peeling. Trust me; they’ll be sweet little nuggets of joy!

Steaming Beets

Steaming is another great way to prepare beets, and it helps preserve their nutrients. Here’s how I like to do it:

  1. Add about an inch of water to a pot and insert a steaming basket.
  2. Place the beets in the basket, cover the pot, and bring the water to a gentle boil.
  3. Steam for around 30 minutes or until they are tender.
  4. Pull them out and let cool before the peeling action.
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Grilling Beets

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, why not toss some beets on the grill? Grilled beets develop a unique smoky flavor. Here’s my foolproof method:

  1. Cut each beet into half-inch slices.
  2. Brush them with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. When tender and slightly charred, pull them off and let them cool.

Microwaving Beets

Need to whip up some beets on short notice? The microwave is a lifesaver. Here’s how:

  1. Place the cleaned whole beets in a bowl with a couple tablespoons of water.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Microwave on high for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on size.
  4. Allow them to cool before peeling.

Ways to Use Beets

Okay, you’ve cooked your beets, and now what? Here’s where it gets fun. Beets are super versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Salads

My favorite way to use beets is in salads. They add color and a natural sweetness. Here’s a simple recipe:

  • Roasted Beet Salad
    • Cook your beets of choice.
    • Slice them up and toss them on a bed of arugula.
    • Crumble some goat cheese over the top and sprinkle with walnuts.
    • Drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a finishing touch.

Soups

Beet soup is a delightful experience. Who would’ve thought a soup could look that vibrant? Here’s a basic beet soup:

  • Beet Borscht
    • Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot.
    • Add your cooked beets and vegetable broth.
    • Simmer for about 20 minutes, then blend it smooth.
    • A dollop of sour cream makes it even better.

Sides

Cooked beets also make a fantastic side dish. I love to simply season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roasting them adds an irresistible flavor that pairs well with everything from chicken to fish.

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Snacks

Feeling peckish? Beet chips are a fun way to satisfy that crunch craving. Slice beets thin, toss with some olive oil, salt, and bake until crispy.

Storing Cooked Beets

Once you have cooked up a batch of beets, you may find yourself with leftovers (if they last that long!). Here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigeration: Store cooked beets in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about a week.
  • Freezing: If you want to prolong the beet love, cut them into slices and freeze them. They will last for about three months.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few extra tips I’ve gathered over the years to help you on your beet journey:

  1. Avoid Stains: Wear gloves when handling beets, especially if you plan to peel them. Your hands will thank you later.
  2. Cooking with Whole Beets: If you want to keep color and flavor, cooking them whole works wonders.
  3. Cutting before Cooking: If you want to reduce cooking time, cut them into smaller pieces. Just make sure they are all the same size for even cooking.

Common Questions About Beets

I have received my fair share of questions about beets throughout my blogging journey, so I thought I’d address a few of them here:

Are Beets Healthy?

Totally! Beets are low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. They also have natural nitrates that may help with exercise performance.

Can You Eat Beet Greens?

Absolutely! The greens are edible and highly nutritious. Sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a fantastic side dish.

How Do You Know When Beets Are Done Cooking?

You can check their doneness by sticking a fork or knife into the largest beet. It should slide in easily when they are cooked.