Learn how to boil beets. Boiling beets is probably the easiest way to prepare garden fresh beets. If you can boil water, you can learn how to cook beets.

Beets come in a variety of colors including reds, striped and golden in hue. Baby beets are just a beet that has been harvested before it has grown to its full size. They are more tender compared to their full-size counterparts and are perfect for roasting whole for salads or pickling whole for a cheese and charcuterie board.

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The fresher, the better when it comes to selecting beets. The best beets will have stems and leaves that have few blemishes and are not wilted. The beet will be smooth on the surface and firm, with no give when pressed. Choose a beet without cracks or bruises. Did you know that you can make beet juice from fresh beets?

How To Boil Beets:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add enough water to cover the beets.
While the water is coming to a boil, trim off the root off the bottom of the beet as well as the stem and leaves. Save the leaves to sautee, if you wish. Scrub the beets if they are especially dirty.
Bring the water to a boil, place the beets to the pot and boil for 30 to 40 minutes. Depending on the size of the beets, the larger the beets, the longer it will take to cook them.
Insert a sharp knife into the beet to know if you cook them properly and if it easily slides to the center of the beet, you'll know it is cooked.
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the beets from the water.
Transfer to a clean plate and allow the beets to cool for 15 minutes or until comfortable to handle.
Remove the skin from the beets by pinching the skin loose from the beet.
Finally, slice the beets to your preferred sizes.
Store sliced beets in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Beet peeling tips

Peel the beets with your fingertips while the beets are still warm. Once they cool all the way down, it is next to impossible to peel.
To avoid getting beet juice stains on your hands, you'll want to wear food-safe gloves.
To clean the cutting boards of beet stains, use a combination of lemon juice and salt, rubbing in a circular motion.

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How to use boiled beets:

pickled beets
beet juice
sliced on a salad with goat cheese
Added to hummus to give bright color and another layer of flavor.

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Can I steam the beets? How do I know if the beets are done?

Yes, another easy method to cook beets is placing them in a steamer basket above boiling water; allow the beets to steam until they are tender, checking for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the root vegetables to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it a good idea to roast beets?

Roasting whole beets is a great idea. Serving them as a side, toss them in olive oil before roasting.

What's the best way to cook beets?

The best way to cook them is to add a drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast beets in the oven until tender. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the beets while adding a savory touch with the salt and pepper seasoning.

What are some boiled beets recipes worth trying?

Use the boiled beets with a beet salad by tossing boiled beets with a low-calorie balsamic vinaigrette for a side dish. Alternatively, roast boiled beets and mix them with a light balsamic glaze for a satisfying snack that's low in calories and fat.

Can I prepare beets just like other vegetable dishes?

Yes, you can prepare red beets like other vegetables by roasting, boiling, steaming, or sautéing them. Beets is an easy vegetable and can be incorporated into various dishes to suit your preferences.

Hot To Boil Beets (Step by Step Instructions Included!)

Sarah Mock

5 from 3 votes

Boiling beets is probably the easiest way to prepare garden fresh beets. If you can boil water, you can cook a beet.

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1 5

5 beets

Ingredients

▢ 5 Beets large

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. There should be enough water to cover the beets.
While the water is coming to a boil, trim off the root off the bottom of the beet as well as the stem and leaves Save the leaves to sautee, if you wish. Wash the beets if they are especially dirty.
Once the water comes to a boil, add the beets to the pot and boil for 30 to 40 minutes. The larger the beets, the longer it will take to cook them.
Insert a sharp knife into the beet and if it easily slides to the center of the beet, it is cooked.
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the beets from the water.
Transfer to a clean plate and allow them to cool for 15 minutes or until comfortable to handle.
Remove the skin from the beets by pinching the skin loose from the beet.
Finally, cut the cooled beets to your preferred sizes.
Store sliced beets in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Side Dishes

American

Hot To Boil Beets

I am Sarah Mock. Welcome!

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 16 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.

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