Beet root is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed raw, roasted, boiled, steamed, or even pickled. Here’s how to use beet root in various ways:
Preparing Beet Root
Before using beet root, you'll need to prepare it.
- Wash Thoroughly: Scrub the beets under cold running water to remove any dirt.
- Trim: Cut off the tops and root ends. You can save the beet greens to eat separately!
- Peel (Optional): Peeling is optional, but the skin can be tough. It's easier to peel after cooking.
Ways to Use Beet Root
Raw
- Salads: Finely grate raw beets into salads for a vibrant color and earthy flavor. They add a delightful crunch.
- Juice: Blend raw beets into juice for a nutritional boost. Beets are rich in nitrates, which can improve blood flow. Start with small amounts as it can be quite potent.
- Garnish: Thinly sliced or julienned raw beets make an attractive garnish for soups or other dishes.
Cooked
- Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of beets. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender.
- Boiling: Boil whole beets until tender. This is a simple method, but some nutrients may leach into the water.
- Steaming: Steaming preserves more nutrients than boiling. Steam until tender.
Recipes and Applications
- Beet Salads: Combine cooked beets with ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a trendy and delicious salad.
- Pickled Beets: Preserve beets by pickling them in vinegar, sugar, and spices.
- Soups: Add beets to soups like borscht for color and flavor.
- Beet Hummus: Blend cooked beets into hummus for a unique twist.
- Beet Chips: Thinly slice beets and bake or dehydrate them into crispy chips.
Considerations
- Staining: Beets can stain surfaces, so use a cutting board and wear gloves if desired.
- Storage: Store raw beets in the refrigerator for several weeks. Cooked beets can be stored for several days.
- Earthy Flavor: Some people find the earthy flavor of beets strong. Roasting can help to reduce this.
Beet root is a healthy and versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Experiment with different preparations to find your favorite!
