To keep red beets fresh, store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator at or below 41°F (5°C). This method will keep them for 7 to 10 days. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option, preserving them for up to ten months.
Refrigerator Storage: Keeping Beets Fresh for a Week
- Method: Place your beets in a plastic bag and refrigerate at 41°F (5°C) or below.
- Duration: Expect them to stay fresh for 7-10 days.
- Tip: Choose beets that are firm, uniformly red, and relatively small (no more than 3 inches across) for optimal freshness.
Freezing Beets for Long-Term Storage
- Method: Prepare beets for freezing by thoroughly washing, cleaning and possibly cooking them first (this step is optional, but it's easier to use frozen beets for recipes if you blanch and peel them beforehand). Then, package them tightly and freeze at 0°F (-18°C).
- Duration: Frozen beets will retain quality for up to ten months.
- Recommendation: Only preserve the amount your family can consume within 12 months to maximize nutritional value and avoid waste.
Selecting the Best Beets for Storage
To ensure the longest possible storage life, select beets that are:
- Deep, uniformly red in color.
- Tender and young.
- No more than 3 inches across.
