This tutorial will teach you how to boil beets until tender and sweet in simple steps. Beetroots are healthy root vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals. They can be cooked in different ways, but boiling it is the simplest and most common method.
How to cook beetroots
Ever wondered how you can boil beets so that they are tender and flavorsome? Look no further, as this guide will show you how to boil beetroots in just a few simple steps
Apart from roasting, beetroots can be cooked in different ways, they can be boiled, grilled, air fried, pressure cooked, sautéed, or eaten raw. However, boiling is the most basic and popular way to cook beetroots. Most supermarkets store boiled beetroot because it is convenient for the consumers. It is versatile and can be easily transformed into a healthy dish.
While the boiling process is not the quickest if done on the stovetop, however, it is an easy method that yields consistent results.
Health benefits overview
Beetroots are low in calories and a good source of fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin C.
Beetroots have been linked to several health benefits, including improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and increased exercise performance.
Related posts: how long to boil carrots, how to boil broccoli, and how to boil mushrooms.
Tools needed
A pot large enough for the number of beets you will be cooking
A slotted spoon to help remove the cooked veg from hot water once it is done.
Fork, knife, or toothpick to check for doneness of the boiled veg.
Ingredients
Fresh Beetroots
Salt
Water
How to boil beets in simple steps
Start by washing the beetroots under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Cut off the stem (the greens) leaving about 1 inch left on the beets.
Place the rinsed beets in a pot and add enough water to just cover the beetroots. Then, add salt to taste.
Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Cook the beetroots until they are fork-tender. This should be about 25-40 minutes depending on the size of the beetroot.
To check if they are done, insert a fork, knife, or toothpick into the center of the beet. If it slides in easily, then they are done.
Once they are cooked through, drain the water using a colander and let the beetroots cool slightly. It must be cool enough to handle before you try to peel it. Cut and slice to desired shapes and sizes for your intended dishes.
How to peel beets easily
Boiled beets can be peeled with your hands, kitchen towel (or paper towel), or with a knife should you have a stubborn one that refuses to peel easily. These methods will stain your hand but don't fret, it comes off easily after a few hours or even minutes. You can wear gloves to avoid staining your hands if you prefer.
The best and fastest way to peel boiled beetroot is by hand under cold running water or by filling the pot with water.
Hold the boiled beets cupped in your hand then use your thumb to rub the skin off. The skin should come off quite easily. If it's being stubborn, then use a sharp knife to peel it.
Once all the skin is removed, give them a quick rinse under cold water and they are ready to be eaten or used in recipes.
PS: golden beetroots do not stain the hand as red beetroot do.
How to serve boiled beets
There are many ways you can enjoy boiled beets. They can be served hot, warm, or cold. You can also pickle them or make beetroot relish. The options are endless.
Some popular serving suggestions include
- Sliced and added to salads
- Mashed with other ingredients such as goat cheese or cream cheese and used as a sandwich spread
- Blended to make hummus, and other dips and served as a healthy appetizer
- Chopped and used in soups or stews
- Sliced and served as a side dish with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper
There are endless possibilities when it comes to serving boiled beetroots. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your favorite way to enjoy them.
How to store
Cooked beetroots can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 6 months. Boiled beetroots can also be jarred and canned for longer shelf life.
How To Boil Beetroots
Ingredients
- 3 large beetroots
- salt to taste
- water
Instructions
- Wash the beetroot under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Cut off the stem (the greens) leaving about 1 inch left on the beets.
- Place the rinsed beets in a pot and add enough water to just cover the beetroots. Then, add salt to taste (this is optional).
- Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Cook the beetroots until they are fork-tender. This should be about 25-40 minutes depending on the size of the beetroot.
- To check if they are done, insert a fork, knife, or toothpick into the center of the beet. If it slides in easily, then they are done.
- Once they are cooked through, drain the water using a colander and let the beetroots cool slightly. It must be cool enough to handle before you try to peel it. Enjoy! Cut and slice to desired shapes and sizes for your intended dishes
Notes
FAQs
How long to boil beetroots (how long to boil beets to remove skin)
It usually takes about 25-40 minutes to cook beetroots until they are fork-tender. Most times the size of the beetroot will determine how long it will take to cook. small bulbs will fully cook in about 20-25 minutes while larger ones will take up to 40 minutes to fully cook.
Can I eat the skin of a boiled beetroot
The skin of a boiled beetroot is edible but most people prefer to peel it off. In fact, store-bought boiled beetroots come peeled, if you do choose to eat the skin, make sure to wash the beetroots thoroughly before cooking.
Can you eat raw beets with skin
Yes, you can eat beetroot raw all parts of this root vegetable is edible. However, many prefer to cook it because it can be quite earthy and hard to digest raw. If you want to use beetroot raw in salads, it is best to grate it or use a mandoline to thinly slice it.
How do you know when boiled beetroot is done
To check if they are done, insert a fork, knife, or toothpick into the center of the beet. If it slides in easily, then they are done. Another way to test is by giving the beetroots a little squeeze. If they are soft to the touch, then they are cooked through.
Is beetroot skin edible
The skin of a boiled beetroot is edible, however, If you do choose to eat the skin, make sure to wash the beetroots thoroughly before cooking.
That's it! These are the basic steps on how to boil and cook beetroots. With a little practice, you'll get the hang of it in no time. Enjoy
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