Grocery
Whole Beets
What it is
These are whole, raw beets, typically sold with their greens still attached. Beets are root vegetables known for their deep red or sometimes golden color and earthy flavor. They are a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in many ways. The root itself is firm and dense, while the greens are leafy and can be cooked like other greens. They are a good source of natural sugars and pigments.
How people cook with it
Beets can be roasted, boiled, pickled, or grated raw into salads. The greens are also edible and can be sautéed or steamed.
- Roasted for a sweet side dish
- Boiled and sliced for salads
- Pickled for a tangy condiment
- Grated raw into slaws
To prepare, trim the greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the root to prevent bleeding. Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. For roasting, toss whole or cut beets with oil and seasoning and roast until tender. Boiling involves simmering them until fork-tender. Beets can also be peeled and grated raw into salads or slaws for a vibrant color and texture. The greens can be chopped and sautéed with garlic or added to soups.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike pre-cooked or canned beets, these raw beets offer a fresher flavor and firmer texture. Their natural sweetness is more pronounced when cooked from scratch. The inclusion of the greens provides an additional edible component, unlike beets sold without them.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add a healthy and colorful vegetable to their meals will find these beets useful.
How to keep the rest
Store the beets in the refrigerator. If the greens are still attached, keep them slightly moist, perhaps wrapped in a damp paper towel, to prevent wilting. Use the greens within a few days, as they are more perishable than the root. The beet roots themselves can last for several weeks when stored properly.