This recipe is pretty straightforward. Growing up in the south, we never really ate beets. However, after moving to Wisconsin, we actively grow them and they kind of taste like sweet corn if you have never tried them. We grow these in our garden and they do very well with our soil.
Beats are are dense in essential nutrients such as folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. These nutrients play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including cell division, antioxidant defense, and electrolyte balance.
Here are some fun facts about beets and why you should cook with them:
- Ancient Roots: Beets have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of their cultivation dating back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans. Initially, people primarily consumed beet greens, and the sweet beetroot we know today developed later.
- Natural Pigments: The vibrant red color of beets comes from betalains, which are water-soluble pigments. Betalains are not only responsible for the color but also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Versatile Varieties: Beets come in various colors, including red, golden, and even striped. Each variety has its own unique flavor profile, from the earthy taste of red beets to the milder, sweeter flavor of golden beets.
- Sugar Source: Beets are a significant source of sugar production. Sugar beets, a variety specifically grown for sugar extraction, account for a substantial portion of the world’s sugar supply.
- Culinary Uses: Beets are versatile in the kitchen. They can be roasted, boiled, pickled, or even eaten raw. Beetroot is a common ingredient in salads, soups, and smoothies, and beet greens can be sautéed or added to salads.
- Nutrient-Rich Leaves: While the beetroot gets a lot of attention, the beet greens (leaves) are also highly nutritious. They are rich in vitamins A and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.
- Natural Food Coloring: The intense color of beets makes them a popular natural food coloring agent. Beet juice is often used to add a vibrant hue to dishes, beverages, and even desserts.
- Health Benefits for Athletes: The nitrates in beets have been studied for their potential to enhance exercise performance. Some athletes incorporate beet juice into their pre-workout routine to improve oxygen utilization during physical activity.
- Indicator of Stomach Acid: Beeturia is a condition where the consumption of beets can temporarily cause urine and stools to turn pink or red. It’s harmless for most people but can be an indicator of low stomach acid in some cases.
- Long Shelf Life: Beets have a relatively long shelf life, especially when stored in a cool, dark place. This makes them a convenient and durable addition to your vegetable drawer.
These facts highlight the rich history, versatility, and nutritional benefits that beets bring to the table. Whether you enjoy them for their earthy flavor, vibrant color, or potential health benefits, beets add a unique touch in contrast to other beets..
Prep time:5 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serving: 3-4 depends on size of the beets
Ingredients:
6-8 beets
1/4 Tsp. of salt
1 Tbsp. of butter
Fresh grown beets
Ingredients
- 8 beets
- 1/4 tsp beets
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cut the tops off of the beets and rinse thoroughly.
- Place rinsed beets in water and bring to a boil. (This takes approximately 45 minutes once they boil before they are ready to slice).
- After boiling, rinse under cool water to peel off the outer skin.
- Slice beets about 1/2 in size or less and set aside.
- Return beets to sauce pan and add 1 Tbs. of butter and a dash of salt.(Optional: I also added 1Tbs. of coconut oil for good healthy fats)
- Heat the beets for a few minutes until the butter melts.
Directions:
1. Cut the tops off of the beets and rinse thoroughly.
2. Place rinsed beets in water and bring to a boil. (This takes approximately 45 minutes once they boil before they are ready to slice).
3. After boiling, rinse under cool water to peel off the outer skin.
4. Slice beets about 1/2 in size or less and set aside.
5. Return beets to sauce pan and add 1 Tbs. of butter and a dash of salt.(Optional: I also added 1Tbs. of coconut oil for good healthy fats)
6. Heat the beets for a few minutes until the butter melts.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion:
This cooked beet recipe is simple, allowing the natural flavors of the beets to shine. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, and enjoy the earthy sweetness of this nutritious vegetable!