Steamed beets offer a vibrant, earthy sweetness that elevates any meal, from salads to roasted vegetable sides. Unlike boiling, steaming preserves the beets' nutrients and delivers a tender texture without the risk of overcooking. This method is remarkably simple, requiring minimal ingredients and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Forget the tedious scrubbing and lengthy cooking times associated with other methods – steaming beets is surprisingly quick and efficient. Their versatility shines through in countless culinary applications, making them a delicious and healthy addition to a well-rounded diet.
Beyond their nutritional value, steamed beets boast a beautiful, deep crimson hue that adds visual appeal to any plate. Ready to experience the ease and deliciousness of perfectly steamed beets? Let's dive into the step-by-step process, guiding you to perfectly cooked beets every time.
Tools Needed
- Steamer basket
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- Beets
- Water
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives, cilantro)
- Red onion (optional)
- Feta cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Beets
- Trim the stems and leafy greens from the beets. If not using immediately, store beets and greens separately in airtight containers to prevent the greens from drawing nutrients from the beets.
- Wash the beets under cold water and scrub the exterior with your thumb.
Step 2. Steam the Beets
- Add a couple of inches of water to the bottom of a pot. Bring the water to a boil on high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Place the beets in the steamer basket and set it in the pot. Cover and steam for 30 minutes, or until a knife pierces easily. The beets should be vibrant in color.
- Turn off the heat and let the beets sit in the pot for about 5 minutes to cool.
Step 3. Cool and Peel the Beets
- Run the beets under cold water to cool them further and make peeling easier. The skins should slip off easily.
Step 4. Cut and Store
- Cut the beets into bite-sized pieces.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for use throughout the week.
Read more: Super Easy Fall-Off-Bone Chinese Style Ribs: One-Pot Recipe
Tips
- Red beets can stain, so use a plastic cutting board and consider wearing dark clothing or an apron.
- The beet greens are edible and can be sautéed.
- For a simple side dish, toss the cooked beets with olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Calories: 70-100
- Fat: 0.5-2g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
FAQs
1. How long does it take to steam beets?
Steaming time depends on the size of the beets. Small beets might take 20-30 minutes, while larger ones could need 40-60 minutes. Use a fork to check for tenderness; they should pierce easily.
2. What can I do with leftover steamed beets?
Steamed beets are incredibly versatile! Add them to salads, grain bowls, or make a delicious beet dip. You can also roast them for a deeper flavor or puree them into a vibrant soup or smoothie.
Steaming beets is a simple and effective way to enjoy this nutritious root vegetable. With minimal effort, you can create a healthy and delicious side dish or ingredient for countless recipes. So embrace the ease and vibrant flavor of steamed beets and add them to your weekly meal plan!