Beets are a versatile root vegetable that boasts a unique combination of flavours. Their earthy undertones, coupled with a subtle warmth and natural sweetness, make them a popular choice in various culinary applications. Whether enjoyed hot, cold, shredded on salads, or incorporated into soups and cakes, beets offer a delightful burst of flavour that can elevate a wide range of dishes.
Beyond their culinary appeal, beets are also renowned for their natural staining properties. The vibrant hue of beet juice has long been used as a natural dye, adding a touch of colour to fabrics, foods, and even cosmetics. The bright red brilliance of beets not only adds visual interest to dishes but also highlights their rich nutritional content, including antioxidants and essential nutrients.
Overall, beets are not only a flavorful addition to meals but also a versatile ingredient with a range of uses both in and out of the kitchen. Their earthy sweetness and vibrant colour make them a beloved ingredient for those looking to add depth and complexity to their culinary creations.
Discover the versatility of beets in our upcoming article as we delve into three distinct and innovative ways to showcase their exceptional flavour profiles. From savoury dishes to sweet treats, we explore how beets can elevate your culinary creations to new heights. In our Fall 2024 newsletter, we will guide you through the art of properly roasting beets, unlocking their rich earthy notes and tender texture. Stay tuned to uncover the secrets behind incorporating beets into your cooking repertoire and prepare to be inspired by their delicious potential.
Blushing Beet Hummus
Adapted from: Jeanine and Jack from Love and Lemons
Ingredients
1 medium beet, roasted
2 garlic cloves, roasted
1½ cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 to 3 tablespoons warm water
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon coriander
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method
Roast garlic with beets to save on energy and time
Add peeled roasted beets to a food processor and chop
While the processor is running, add the roasted garlic, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and water and blend until smooth.
Add spices to taste. Chill until ready to use, keeps in the fridge for 5 days, covered.
Notes
Find instructions on how-to roast beets with minimal mess in our 2024 Fall Newsletter. Not a subscriber? Add yourself to the list to get signed up for exclusive content and recipes here!
Serving suggestion
Enjoy this vibrant anti-oxidant-filled hummus with some chopped veg as a dip, on an open-faced sandwich as a spread. Drizzle with olive oil and paprika for an extra boost of flavour when serving.
Balsamic Roots Bowl
Adapted from Greta of Yum & Yummers
Ingredients
Balsamic Dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp Mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp each salt and freshly ground black pepper
Bowl
3 medium beets, peeled, cubed into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
2 tbsp (divided) olive oil, divided
1 large sweet potatoes peeled, cubed into 1/2-inch cubes
1 small red onion, cut into wedges
2 cups kale, coarsely chopped
2 cups hot cooked quinoa
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Method
Preheat oven to 425ºF.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
In a medium bowl, toss beets with 2 tsp oil. Spread on pan and roast for 15 minutes. Remove the beets from the oven and move them to one side of the pan.
Toss sweet potatoes and onions with 2 tsp oil and add to beets in a single layer on the pan. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and slide the potatoes and onions next to the beets. Toss kale with the remaining 2 tsp oil (massage it in) and add to veggies in a single layer on the pan, then add walnut pieces. Roast for 5 minutes.
To assemble, place desired amount of quinoa in bottom of serving bowl. Top with veggies, and feta, then drizzle dressing over top. Serve warm.
Notes
This recipe is easily adaptable to what you may already have on hand as the balsamic dressing complements many flavours. Try swapping sweet potatoes for carrots, spinach for kale, or quinoa for wild rice.
Beet-iful Chocolate Cake
Adapted from Kristin of Pastry Affair
Ingredients
5 medium beets, roasted
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Confectioner's sugar, for dusting
Method
Place beets in a food processor and process until beets are pureed. Reserve 2 cups puree.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour baking pan(s).
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla and beet puree.
In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir into the beet batter until well combined.
Pour batter into prepared baking pan(s) and bake for 40-50 minutes (longer for the 10-inch cake) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in pan before removing to cool completely on a cooling rack. Dust with confectioner's sugar.
Notes
This recipe may produce extra beet puree which can be used for the hummus recipe above!
In conclusion, beets are a highly nutritious vegetable that offers numerous health benefits, such as improving blood pressure, boosting stamina, and supporting detoxification. However, it is important to be cautious about their staining properties. Beets can leave stubborn stains on clothes and kitchen equipment due to their vibrant colour. To prevent staining, handle beets carefully, wear protective clothing, and clean up spills promptly. Enjoy the health benefits of beets while being mindful of their potential to leave lasting stains.
Tried any of these recipes? Let us know your thoughts below or tag us on Instagram @um.cfsg.
Comments