Beet Cooking 101: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Roasted, Sautéed, and Pickled Beets

Beets. They're one of those vegetables that can be a bit intimidating, especially if you're not used to cooking with them. I used to feel the same way. They always seemed a bit…earthy, maybe even a touch intimidating. But trust me, they're incredibly versatile and delicious, and once you get the hang of them, you'll wonder why you ever avoided them in the first place. I'm going to break down everything you need to know about cooking beets, from selecting the right ones to mastering different cooking methods. We'll cover roasting, sautéing, and pickling, along with some of my favourite ways to use them in recipes. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let's get cooking!

(Part 1) Choosing the Perfect Beets

The first step to delicious beet dishes is choosing the right beets. You know, it's kind of like picking the right ingredients for any recipe - you want to start with something good! Here's what to look for:

Size and Shape

For most cooking methods, you'll want to choose beets that are about the size of a golf ball or a little larger. Smaller beets cook faster and are often sweeter, while larger beets can be a bit tougher. I've found that those larger beets are great for roasting, as they have a bit more room to soften up. As for shape, go for beets that are round or slightly oval – avoid those with a pointy top, as they can be more difficult to cook evenly. You'll end up with some unevenly cooked bits, and no one wants that, right?

Freshness

Fresh beets have a firm, smooth skin with no signs of wilting or damage. Their leaves should be bright green and crisp. You know, just like a fresh bunch of leafy greens at the market! Avoid beets with any signs of rot, discoloration, or blemishes. If you see any of those things, it's probably best to choose a different bunch.

Colour

Beets come in a range of colours, from deep crimson to golden yellow. Red beets are the most common, but golden and Chioggia beets (with their striking red and white swirls) offer unique colours and flavours. I love using golden beets for salads because they add such a vibrant touch. Chioggia beets are also a hit, especially if you're looking for something visually stunning. They just make the plate look so much more interesting!

(Part 2) Roasting Beets: A Classic and Delicious Method

Roasting beets is a classic technique that brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavour. It's also incredibly simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This is definitely my go-to method for beets. They come out tender, sweet, and bursting with flavour. Here's what you need to know:

Preparation

Start by scrubbing the beets with a brush to remove any dirt or grit. You don't need to peel them – the skin will easily slip off after roasting. Just give them a good scrub to get rid of any dirt or grime. Then trim the tops, leaving about an inch of stem. You can either roast the beets whole or cut them into smaller pieces depending on your preference and the size of the beets. I usually roast whole beets unless they're really large, in which case I might cut them in half.

Seasoning

Roasting beets is a bit like roasting vegetables – a little seasoning goes a long way. My go-to is a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper. You can also add other flavourings like herbs, spices, or a drizzle of olive oil. A bit of balsamic vinegar can add a touch of sweetness and acidity, while a sprinkle of orange zest offers a vibrant citrus note. It really depends on what you're pairing the beets with. If you're serving them as a side dish, a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper is perfect. But if you're using them in a salad or a more elaborate dish, you can get creative with the seasoning.

roasting time

Roasting time will vary depending on the size of your beets. Small beets (about 2 inches in diameter) will take about 45 minutes, while larger beets (about 3 inches in diameter) will need about an hour. Wrap the beets in foil to help them cook evenly and retain their moisture. You can check for doneness by piercing the beets with a fork – they should be tender. You can also tell they're done by the colour - they should have softened and slightly darkened.

Peeling and Serving

Once the beets are cooked, let them cool slightly before peeling. The skin should slip right off. If you're using the beets for salads, you can slice them into wedges, or dice them for use in soups or stews. roasted beets are also delicious on their own, with a dollop of cream cheese or goat cheese and a drizzle of honey. I love them with a little bit of balsamic glaze on top, too. It adds such a lovely tangy flavour.

(Part 3) Sautéing Beets: A Quick and Easy Option

For a quick and easy way to enjoy beets, sautéing is the way to go. This method allows you to cook the beets quickly and retain their vibrant colour and flavour. It's a great option when you need a side dish in a hurry.

Preparation

For sautéing, I like to cut the beets into bite-sized pieces, about ?? inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and makes them easier to eat. I often add some chopped onions and garlic to the pan to add extra flavour.

Sautéing Process

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beet pieces and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the beets begin to soften, add a pinch of salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs or spices. Continue sautéing until the beets are tender but still have a slight bite. You can add a splash of vinegar towards the end of cooking to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavour. It gives them a really lovely tangy flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Sautéed beets are a great addition to salads, grain bowls, and pasta dishes. They also make a delicious side dish when served alongside grilled fish or chicken. You can even add a spoonful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy topping. They're so versatile, you can use them in just about any dish.

(Part 4) Pickling Beets: A Flavorful and Long-Lasting Method

Pickling beets is a fantastic way to preserve them and create a unique and delicious condiment. It's also a great way to use up any leftover beets and add a burst of vibrant colour and flavour to your meals. I love pickled beets! They're so tangy and flavorful, and they add such a beautiful touch of colour to any plate. I like to use them in salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish.

The Basics of Pickling

Pickling involves submerging food in a brine solution, which typically consists of vinegar, sugar, salt, and sometimes spices. The acidity of the vinegar helps to preserve the food, while the sugar and salt add flavour and balance.

Pickling Beets: Step by Step

1. Prepare the Beets: Wash and scrub the beets. Trim the tops and tails. You can either leave the beets whole, cut them into wedges, or dice them. For pickled beets, I prefer to use whole beets or wedges, as they hold their shape better. 2. Create the Brine: Combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and your choice of spices in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve. I like to use a combination of apple cider vinegar and red wine vinegar for a more complex flavour. 3. Pack the Jars: Sterilize your jars and lids. Pack the beets into the jars, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top.4. Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the beets, making sure to cover them completely. Leave about ?? inch of headspace at the top.5. Seal and Store: Wipe the rims of the jars clean. Seal the jars tightly with lids. Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once they're cool, store them in a cool, dark place. Pickled beets will last for several months in the refrigerator.

Variations

There are countless variations on the basic pickling recipe. You can experiment with different vinegars (apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar), sweeteners (honey, maple syrup, brown sugar), spices (peppercorns, cloves, mustard seeds), and even fresh herbs (dill, tarragon, rosemary). I like to add a few sprigs of dill and a few peppercorns to my brine for a classic flavour.

(Part 5) beet recipes: Beyond the Basics

Now that you've got the basics down, let's dive into some delicious beet recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.

beet salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Walnuts

This salad is a real crowd-pleaser, with its sweet and savory flavours and beautiful colours. It's also surprisingly simple to make.

• Roast beets as described in Part 2. Choose golden beets for this recipe - they add such a vibrant colour.
• While the beets are roasting, candied walnuts by tossing them in a mixture of melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Roast for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're fragrant and slightly caramelized. The walnuts add a lovely crunch and sweetness to the salad.
• Once the beets are cool enough to handle, peel and slice them into wedges.
• Toss the beets with crumbled goat cheese, candied walnuts, and a light vinaigrette of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. A little bit of fresh arugula adds a peppery bite to the salad.
• Serve immediately or chill for later.

Beet and carrot soup

This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day. It's full of flavour and packed with nutrients.

• Roast beets and carrots as described in Part 2. Choose a combination of red and golden beets for a colourful soup.
• Once the beets and carrots are cool, peel and chop them into chunks.
• Sauté an onion and a few cloves of garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the chopped beets, carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Purée the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. A little bit of fresh thyme adds a lovely flavour to the soup.
• Serve the soup warm, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

beet burgers

These vegetarian burgers are packed with flavor and are surprisingly satisfying. They're perfect for a BBQ or a casual dinner.

• Roast or sauté beets as described in Parts 2 and 3.
• Once the beets are cool, chop them finely.
• Combine the chopped beets with cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, chopped walnuts, finely chopped onion, and spices (like cumin, coriander, paprika). A little bit of garlic powder adds a lovely flavour to the burgers.
• Form the mixture into patties and grill or pan-fry until cooked through and golden brown.
• Serve the burgers on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and vegan cheese.

(Part 6) Using Beets in Beverages

Beets aren't just for savoury dishes. They can also add a unique flavour and vibrant colour to drinks. They're a great way to add a little bit of sweetness and earthiness to your beverages.

beet juice

Beet juice is a popular choice for its health benefits, including its ability to boost athletic performance and lower blood pressure. You can find beet juice at most grocery stores or make your own by blending cooked beets with water. A pinch of ginger and a squeeze of lemon can add a bit of zing. It's a great way to get your daily dose of veggies, especially if you're not a big fan of eating them.

Beet Smoothies

Beets are also a great addition to smoothies. They blend smoothly and add a natural sweetness and earthy flavour. Try combining beets with other fruits and vegetables like berries, bananas, spinach, and kale for a nutritious and delicious smoothie. You can also add a little bit of protein powder or nut butter for extra sustenance.

Beet Cocktails

If you're looking for a unique cocktail recipe, consider adding beets to your drink. Beet juice can be used to create colourful and flavorful cocktails. The earthy flavour of beets pairs well with citrus juices, ginger, and even spicy peppers. Experiment with different combinations to find your favourite. Beet cocktails are a great way to impress your guests with a unique and unexpected drink.

(Part 7) Beet Storage: Keeping Your Beets Fresh

Keeping beets fresh is key to enjoying their flavour and texture. Here are some tips for storing beets:

Storing Whole Beets

Whole beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Wrap them loosely in plastic wrap or store them in a plastic bag. This will help them retain moisture and prevent them from wilting.

Storing Cooked Beets

Cooked beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze cooked beets, but they may lose some of their texture. To freeze beets, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen beets will last for up to 12 months.

Storing Pickled Beets

Pickled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. Make sure the jars are tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. You can also freeze pickled beets, but they may become softer.

(Part 8) Beet Trivia: Fun Facts about the Beets

Now that you're a beet expert, let's share some fun facts about these wonderful vegetables:

• Beets are a root vegetable, but their green leafy tops are also edible. They can be cooked like spinach or added to salads. beet greens are a great source of vitamins and minerals, so don't throw them away!
• The colour of beets comes from a pigment called betalain, which is also responsible for the red colour of red wine. This is why your urine might turn a bit pink after eating beets - it's totally normal and harmless.
• Beets are a good source of fibre, folate, potassium, and nitrates. Nitrates have been shown to improve athletic performance and lower blood pressure. They're a great choice for anyone who wants to boost their health and fitness.
• Beetroots, as they're called in some countries, were originally grown as a source of sugar. This is why beets are often used in candy and other sweet treats.
• In ancient times, beets were used to dye clothes, make ink, and treat wounds. They've been around for a long time and have been used for a variety of purposes throughout history.

(Part 9) Beet Buying Guide: Where to Find the Best Beets

You can find beets at most supermarkets, farmer's markets, and even online. Here are some tips for choosing the best beets:

• Look for fresh beets: Fresh beets will have firm, smooth skin with no signs of wilting or damage. The leaves should be bright green and crisp. If you see any signs of wilting or damage, it's best to choose a different bunch.
• Check the colour: Beets come in a range of colours, from deep crimson to golden yellow. Choose beets that have an even colour throughout. Avoid beets that have any spots or discoloration.
• Consider the size: Beets vary in size, so choose beets that are appropriate for your recipe. If you're roasting beets, larger beets are better, while smaller beets are great for salads and other dishes.
• Support local farmers: If you have access to a farmer's market, consider buying beets from a local farmer. This is a great way to get fresh, seasonal beets and support your local community.

(Part 10) FAQs: Your Beet Questions Answered

Now for the questions you might have!

Q1: Can I eat beet greens?

Absolutely! Beet greens are packed with nutrients and taste delicious. They have a slightly earthy flavour that can be compared to spinach or chard. You can cook them like other leafy greens by steaming, sautéing, or adding them to soups and stews. They're also a great addition to salads. Beet greens are a great way to use up the entire beet, and they add a healthy boost to your meal.

Q2: What happens if I eat too many beets?

While beets are generally safe to eat in moderation, some people might experience side effects after eating large quantities of beets. These side effects can include red urine or stools, which is due to the betalain pigment in beets. Don't worry, it's harmless and usually resolves on its own. This is a common reaction to beets, especially if you're not used to eating them.

Q3: How do I remove the beet stains from my hands?

Beet stains can be tricky to remove, but a few simple tricks can help. Try rubbing your hands with lemon juice or vinegar, or use a baking soda paste. You can also try soaking your hands in a mixture of water and bleach. Remember to wear gloves if you're working with beets to avoid getting stained in the first place! Beet stains are notorious, but a little bit of elbow grease and some common household ingredients can help to remove them.

Q4: Are beets good for you?

Yes, beets are packed with nutrients and have been linked to numerous health benefits. They're a good source of fibre, folate, potassium, and nitrates. Nitrates have been shown to improve athletic performance and lower blood pressure. They're a great choice for anyone who wants to boost their health and fitness.

Q5: Can I freeze beets?

Yes, you can freeze both raw and cooked beets. To freeze raw beets, wash and scrub them, then cut them into chunks. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 6 months. To freeze cooked beets, cook them as described in Part 2 or Part 3. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen beets will last for up to 12 months. Freezing beets is a great way to preserve them and have them on hand for future recipes.

(Part 11) A Final Word on Beets

And there you have it - a comprehensive guide to cooking, using, and loving beets! They're versatile, nutritious, and surprisingly delicious. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and recipes to find what you like best. Happy cooking, and bon appetit! Remember, beets are a beautiful, delicious, and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. So next time you're at the market, grab a bunch of beets and give them a try! You might just discover a new favourite vegetable.