Beets have a deliciously earthy flavor that complements a variety of ingredients. Whether roasted, boiled, pickled, or pureed, beets are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, for those who are new to cooking with beets, it can be challenging to know which flavors to pair them with.
In this article, we’ll explore what flavors go well with beets, from sweet and sour to salty and creamy. We’ll also provide tips on how to prep and cook beets to bring out their best flavors and textures. So, if you’re looking to incorporate more beets into your diet or experiment with different flavor combinations, read on!
Exploring the Earthy Flavor of Beets
Beets are vegetables with an earthy taste that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This flavor comes from geosmin, a compound present in the soil that gives beets their distinct taste. Earthy flavors are popular in savory dishes, and beets pair well with ingredients that have a mild, sweet, or tart taste. Due to their earthy flavor, beets can be paired with a wide range of spices and herbs that bring out their taste, including thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and cumin.
Moreover, the earthy flavor of beets pairs well with other vegetables such as carrots, spinach, arugula, and sweet potatoes. When looking to balance the earthiness of beets, ingredients such as citrus, vinegar, and cheese can be used. With the right combination of flavors, beets can be transformed into a delicious ingredient that can be used to create a variety of dishes that appeal to any palate.
Classic Combinations: Beets and Goat Cheese
Beets and goat cheese are a classic flavor combination that have been enjoyed for centuries. The earthy sweetness of roasted or pickled beets pairs perfectly with the tangy, creamy flavor of goat cheese. The two ingredients complement each other both in terms of taste and texture, making them a popular choice for salads, pizzas, and even smoothies.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy this classic combination is to make a beet and goat cheese salad. Simply roast or boil a few beets until tender, slice them into thin rounds, and crumble some goat cheese on top. Add a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delicious and healthy salad. You can also use this combination as a spread on crackers or bread, or as a topping for a grilled pizza or flatbread. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy them, beets and goat cheese are a delicious and nutritious pair that will impress your taste buds.
The Sweet and Savory World of Beets and Berries
When it comes to the pairing of beets and berries, there’s no denying the magic that happens when these beautiful ingredients come together. The sweetness of berries perfectly complements the earthy undertones of beets, creating a flavor combination that’s both unique and delicious.
Berries like raspberries and strawberries have a tartness that goes well with the sweetness of beets. They add a natural pop of color to any dish and can be added to salads, smoothies, or baked goods. Blueberries and blackberries, on the other hand, have a more subdued flavor that can bring a slightly floral note to beet dishes. Whether you’re looking to make a sweet or savory beet dish, berries are a great addition that can truly elevate the flavor profile.
Unusual Pairings: Beets and Curry
Unusual Pairings: Beets and Curry – When most people think of pairing beets with other flavors, curry might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the sweet and earthy taste of beets can be a perfect complement to the bold and complex flavors of curry. Beets can add a slight sweetness to the dish and balance out the spiciness of the curry, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
There are many ways to incorporate beets and curry together in a dish. One popular option is to make a beet and potato curry, where grated beets are cooked with spices, potatoes, and other vegetables such as onion and tomato. The sweetness of the beets pairs well with the warm and aromatic spices in the curry, making it a healthy and flavorful dish. Overall, if you’re looking to experiment with different flavors in the kitchen and want to add more beet recipes to your repertoire, be sure to give curry and beets a try!
Elevating Your Salad Game with Beets and Citrus
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your salad game, consider incorporating beets and citrus fruits. The natural sweetness of beets pairs well with the tangy and acidic flavor profile of citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, or lemons.
To make a delicious beet and citrus salad, start with a bed of leafy greens, such as arugula, spinach, or kale. Roast or steam the beets until they are tender, then slice them into bite-sized pieces. Segment the citrus fruits and remove the membrane to avoid any bitterness. Add the sliced beets and citrus segments to the bed of greens, then sprinkle with nuts, seeds, or crumbled cheese to add some crunch and texture. Drizzle with a simple citrus vinaigrette to bring all the flavors together and enjoy a healthy and tasty salad that is sure to impress.
Spicing Up Your Beets with Ginger and Garlic
If you’re looking to add some extra zing to your beet dishes, look no further than ginger and garlic. These two powerful spices pair perfectly with beets, adding an Asian-inspired flavor to your meal.
Ginger adds a subtle heat to beets, while also providing a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. You can add grated ginger to your beet salads, or even roast ginger alongside your beets for a warm and comforting side dish. Garlic, on the other hand, adds a rich and savory flavor to beets. You can roast garlic with your beets or sauté it in a pan with some olive oil before adding it to your dish. Overall, ginger and garlic can liven up your beet dishes and add a burst of delicious flavor.
Experimenting with Beets: Mediterranean-Inspired Flavor Profiles
Mediterranean cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthy eating habits. When it comes to beets, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profiles offer a diverse range of delicious options for those looking to experiment with this root vegetable.
One way to incorporate Mediterranean flavors into your beet dishes is to add ingredients like feta cheese, olives, and garlic. Roasting beets with garlic and then topping them with crumbled feta and sliced olives creates a salty and savory taste that pairs perfectly with the earthiness of beets. Another option is to create a beet hummus by pureeing roasted beets with tahini, lemon juice, chickpeas, and garlic. The result is a vibrant pink hummus that is both tasty and healthy. Other Mediterranean flavors that can complement beets include za’atar, sumac, and mint, offering endless opportunities for flavorful experimentation.
The Conclusion
Beets are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. With their sweet and earthy flavor, they can be combined with a range of other ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals. So, what flavors go well with beets? It really depends on personal preference, but some fantastic options include tangy citrus fruits, salty cheese, and zesty herbs and spices.
Experimenting with different flavor combinations is a fun and exciting way to create new and interesting dishes. By using beets as a cornerstone ingredient, you can create meals that are not only healthy and nutritious but also bursting with flavor. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen and see what delicious flavor profiles you can come up with!