BEETS
Welcome to your ultimate guide for cooking beets! From peeling tips to the best cooking methods, roasting, boiling, steaming, and more! You’ll find everything you need to prepare these nutrient-packed vegetables with ease. Whether you’re looking for rich flavour, quick cooking options, or tips to avoid the mess, this page has you covered. Perfect for both beginners and beet enthusiasts alike!
Peeling Beets: Before or After Cooking?
- Leave the Skin On: Cooking beets with their skin on locks in moisture and flavor. After cooking, the skin will slip off easily, saving time and mess.
- Peel Before Cooking: If your recipe calls for raw or sliced beets, use a vegetable peeler. This can get messy and may stain your hands, so gloves are a good idea!
- Pro Tip: Wash the beets thoroughly before cooking to remove dirt.
How to Peel Cooked Beets
After Roasting:
- Roast whole, unpeeled beets at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, depending on size.
- Let them cool until safe to handle.
- Use a paper towel, gloves, or the edge of a knife to rub the skins off. They’ll come off easily!
After Boiling:
- Boil whole, unpeeled beets in water for 30-40 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Cool slightly, then rub the skins off using a paper towel or your hands.
The Best Ways to Cook Beets
Roasting (Most Flavourful)
- How-To: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap whole, unpeeled beets in foil or place in a covered dish with a drizzle of olive oil. Roast for 45-60 minutes.
- Why: Roasting enhances the beet’s natural sweetness and rich flavor.
- Tip: Roast beets of similar size for even cooking.
Boiling (Quick & Simple)
- How-To: Boil whole, unpeeled beets in a pot of water for 30-40 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Why: Boiling is faster but can dilute the flavor slightly compared to roasting.
- Tip: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to preserve the beet’s vibrant color.
Steaming (Preserves Nutrients)
- How-To: Place unpeeled beets in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
- Why: Steaming preserves nutrients and delivers a clean, natural flavor.
- Tip: Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
Microwaving (Fastest Method)
- How-To: Place washed, unpeeled beets in a microwave-safe dish with water. Cover and microwave on high for 8-15 minutes, depending on size.
- Why: Perfect for when you’re short on time.
- Tip: Rotate beets halfway through cooking for even results.
Grilling (Smoky Flavour)
- How-To: Slice peeled beets into rounds or wedges. Brush with oil and grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Why: Adds a smoky, charred flavor that complements salads or sides.
- Tip: Pre-cook large beets (roast or boil) before grilling for tender results.
Extra Cooking Tips
- Size Matters: Larger beets take longer to cook, so cut them into smaller pieces if you’re short on time.
- Season Well: Beets pair beautifully with olive oil, salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, or fresh herbs.
- Avoid Stains: Use gloves and protect surfaces with parchment paper or foil.
- Don’t Toss the Greens: Beet greens are edible and nutrient-rich! Sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a quick side dish.
Red Beets vs. Golden Beets
Flavour
- Red beets have a bold, slightly bitter taste.
- Golden beets are milder and naturally sweeter.
Texture
- Both are firm when raw.
- Roasting makes them tender and enhances their flavours.
- Golden beets stay slightly firmer even after cooking.
Nutrition
- Both are rich in Vitamin C and fiber.
Appearance
- Red beets give a deep, vibrant color to dishes.
- Golden beets bring a bright, golden hue—great for presentation without staining as much as red beets.
