Beets are a vegetable that often divides opinion – some people love them, while others can’t stand them. However, they are packed full of nutrients and can be a great addition to your diet if you find the right way to prepare them. One of the main questions people have when it comes to beets is what to eat them with – it’s not always easy to work out which flavors and ingredients will complement the earthy taste of beets.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best foods and flavors to pair with beets, whether you’re cooking them as the star of the show or using them as an ingredient in a larger dish. We’ll cover everything from classic flavor combinations like goat cheese and balsamic vinegar to more unusual pairings like miso and smoked salmon. By the end of this article, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for new ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
The Nutritional Benefits of Beets
Beets are one of the most nutritious vegetables that you can add to your diet. They are low in calories and fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked beets contains about just 60 calories, no fat, and 3.4 grams of fiber, which helps to keep you full longer and aids in digestion.
Beets are also loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, folate, iron, and manganese. These nutrients work together to keep your body healthy and functioning properly. Beets are also a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect your body against free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. With all these nutritional benefits, it’s no wonder that beets are considered a must-eat superfood.
Creative Beet Recipes to Try
Beets are a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. From salads to soups, there are various creative ways to incorporate this nutritious root vegetable into your diet. Here are some unique beet recipes to try out:
1) Roasted Beet Hummus – Blend cooked beets with chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil to make a vibrant pink and tasty dip.
2) Beet and Goat Cheese Tart – Layer roasted beets and crumbled goat cheese in a puff pastry crust, topped with a sprinkle of thyme and a drizzle of honey for a savory and sweet appetizer.
3) Beetroot Latte – Whisk beetroot powder with hot milk and a touch of honey for a beautiful and healthy latte that’s perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
These recipes are just some of the many ways that you can get creative with beets. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – your taste buds will thank you!
Pairing Beets with Different Types of Cuisine
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be incorporated into a variety of cuisines. In Indian cuisine, beets can be used to make a popular dish called beetroot raita, which is a yogurt-based side dish. In Mexican cuisine, beets can be roasted and used in a salad with avocado and queso fresco. In Mediterranean cuisine, beets can be used in a traditional Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and cucumbers. In Italian cuisine, beets can be roasted and used as a topping for pizza or in a beet risotto.
Another way to incorporate beets into different types of cuisine is by using them as a natural food coloring. For example, in Asian cuisine, cooked beets can be used to add a pink hue to dumplings or steamed buns. In Middle Eastern cuisine, beets can be used to make a bright pink hummus. Overall, beets can be a fun and creative ingredient to experiment with in various cuisines.
Beets in Salads: Tips and Tricks
Beets are an excellent addition to salads, bringing earthy and sweet flavors to the plate. To make the most of their vibrant color and flavor, try pairing beets with leafy greens like spinach or arugula, which complement their sweetness. Adding some crunch to the salad by tossing in some sliced almonds or walnuts will add texture and depth to the dish.
When preparing beets for salads, it’s important to note that they tend to stain other ingredients they come in contact with, so it’s best to toss them separately in a bowl before adding them to the rest of the salad ingredients. Additionally, beets can be roasted, boiled, or steamed before adding them to your salad, but make sure not to overcook them. Roasting is a popular method that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor to the dish. So, next time you’re making a salad, try incorporating beets to create a delicious and healthy meal.
The Best Meat and Fish Dishes to Serve with Beets
When it comes to pairing meat and fish with beets, there are several options that can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. One of the most popular choices is to serve roasted or grilled beef or lamb with beets. The bold, meaty flavors of these meats complement the earthy sweetness of beets, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
For seafood lovers, smoked salmon or grilled fish can be an excellent choice for pairing with beets. The smooth, slightly oily texture of fish can contrast nicely with the slightly crunchy texture of beets, while the smoky, salty flavors of the salmon provide a nice contrast to the earthy sweetness of the beets. To add an extra layer of flavor, try pairing these dishes with a simple lemon vinaigrette or herb butter sauce. Overall, there are countless ways to enjoy the delicious and nutritious beetroot, and these meat and fish pairing ideas are just the beginning.
Beets in Treats: Sweet Desserts to Make with Beets
Beets are surprisingly versatile when it comes to sweet treats. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color make them a great addition to desserts ranging from cakes to ice creams. You can use beets in both baked and unbaked desserts to achieve a unique flavor and texture.
One of the most popular ways to use beets in sweets is by making a beetroot red velvet cake. This cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Beets can also be used in brownies, muffins, and even in homemade fudgesicles. Don’t be afraid to experiment with beets in your desserts as they can add a whole new dimension of flavor and nutrients to your treats.
How to Grow and Store Beets for Optimal Flavor and Texture.
Beets are commonly grown in cooler climates and prefer well-drained, fertile soil. When planting, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Beets can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and later transplanted. They typically take 55 to 70 days to mature. To make sure your beets have optimal flavor, keep them well-watered and remove any weeds regularly.
To store beets after harvesting, it’s important to first remove their leaves and stems. Washing the roots thoroughly and letting them air dry is important to ensure they do not rot while storing. Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks or in a root cellar at about 32°F, where they can last for up to a few months. To maintain their flavor and texture, be careful not to store them near fruits that release ethylene gas, such as apples or bananas, as this will cause the beets to spoil faster.
Wrapping Up
Pairing beets with the right ingredients can elevate your meal and create a unique flavor profile. Roasting beets and adding them to salads with a tangy dressing, or pickling them to add a zing to sandwiches and wraps are just a few ways to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your diet. Experimenting with different combinations such as beets and goat cheese, beets and citrus, or beets and nuts can lead to surprising and delicious results.
In addition to their delicious taste, beets are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients. They can help regulate blood pressure and improve athletic performance. By adding beets to your diet, you can reap the benefits of this superfood and discover new and exciting culinary experiences. With so many tasty options, the possibilities of what goes well with beets are endless.