Cooking Small Beetroot to Perfection: A Comprehensive Guide

Beetroot is a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can add a burst of flavor and color to any dish. While larger beetroot can be intimidating to cook, small beetroot is much easier to work with and can be prepared in a variety of ways. In this article, we will explore the different methods for cooking small beetroot, including boiling, roasting, pickling, and more.

Choosing the Right Small Beetroot

Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right small beetroot. Look for beetroot that is firm, smooth, and has a deep red or gold color. Avoid beetroot with soft spots, bruises, or signs of mold. You can find small beetroot at most supermarkets or farmers’ markets, and they are often sold in bunches with the leaves attached.

Types of Small Beetroot

There are several types of small beetroot, each with its unique flavor and texture. Some popular varieties include:

• Baby beetroot: These are young, immature beetroot that are harvested before they reach full size. They have a sweet, tender flavor and a soft, delicate texture.
• Chioggia beetroot: These are small, round beetroot with a white and red striped pattern. They have a sweet, slightly earthy flavor and a firm texture.
• Golden beetroot: These are small, yellow beetroot with a sweet, buttery flavor and a soft, tender texture.

Cooking Methods for Small Beetroot

Now that we’ve covered the basics of choosing the right small beetroot, let’s move on to the cooking methods. Here are some popular ways to cook small beetroot:

Boiling Small Beetroot

Boiling is a simple and quick way to cook small beetroot. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Place the small beetroot in a large pot of salted water.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Cook the beetroot for 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Drain the beetroot and let them cool.

Tips for Boiling Small Beetroot

• Use a large pot to allow the beetroot to cook evenly.
• Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the water to help retain the color of the beetroot.
• Don’t overcook the beetroot, as they can become mushy and unappetizing.

Roasting Small Beetroot

Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of small beetroot. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place the small beetroot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Roast the beetroot for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.

Tips for Roasting Small Beetroot

• Cut the beetroot in half or quarters to help them cook evenly.
• Use a high-quality olive oil to add flavor to the beetroot.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the beetroot from cooking evenly.

Pickling Small Beetroot

Pickling is a great way to preserve small beetroot and add a tangy flavor. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Slice the small beetroot thinly and place them in a jar.
• Combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
• Pour the pickling liquid over the beetroot and let them cool.
• Store the pickled beetroot in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Tips for Pickling Small Beetroot

• Use a variety of spices and seasonings to add flavor to the pickling liquid.
• Don’t overpack the jar, as this can cause the beetroot to become too salty.
• Let the pickled beetroot sit for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Using Small Beetroot in Recipes

Now that we’ve covered the cooking methods, let’s explore some delicious recipes that feature small beetroot as the main ingredient. Here are a few ideas:

• Beetroot Salad: Slice the cooked beetroot thinly and combine with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Beetroot Soup: Puree the cooked beetroot with chicken or vegetable broth and cream for a creamy and comforting soup.
• Beetroot Risotto: Sauté the cooked beetroot with Arborio rice and white wine for a creamy and flavorful risotto.

Beetroot and Goat Cheese Tart

This recipe is a great way to showcase the sweetness of small beetroot. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet.
• Arrange the cooked beetroot on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
• Crumble goat cheese over the beetroot and fold the other half of the pastry over the filling.
• Brush the pastry with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips for Making a Beetroot and Goat Cheese Tart

• Use a high-quality puff pastry to add flaky texture to the tart.
• Don’t overfill the tart, as this can cause the filling to spill over during baking.
• Let the tart cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Conclusion

Cooking small beetroot is a simple and rewarding process that can add a burst of flavor and color to any dish. Whether you boil, roast, pickle, or use them in a recipe, small beetroot are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a beetroot expert and enjoying the many benefits of this delicious root vegetable.

By following the cooking methods and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious and nutritious small beetroot all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, small beetroot are a great ingredient to add to your repertoire.

What is the best way to choose small beetroot for cooking?

When selecting small beetroot, look for those that are firm and have a vibrant color. Avoid any with soft spots or signs of mold. You can also choose beetroot with the leaves still attached, as these can be used in salads or sautéed as a side dish. Make sure to choose beetroot that is roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.

It’s also worth noting that small beetroot can be found in a variety of colors, including red, gold, and white. Each color has a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite. Some popular varieties of small beetroot include Chioggia, which has a beautiful white and red striped pattern, and Golden Beet, which has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor.

How do I store small beetroot to keep them fresh?

To keep small beetroot fresh, store them in a cool, dark place. You can store them in the refrigerator, but make sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as beetroot can absorb odors easily. If you won’t be using your beetroot for a few days, you can also store them in a paper bag or breathable container to keep them fresh.

It’s also worth noting that you can store cooked beetroot in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply let the beetroot cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. You can also freeze cooked beetroot for up to 6 months. Simply let the beetroot cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer.

What is the best way to peel small beetroot?

The best way to peel small beetroot is to roast them in the oven first. Simply wrap the beetroot in foil and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is tender and easily removable. Once the beetroot has cooled, you can simply slip off the skin and discard it.

Alternatively, you can also peel small beetroot using a vegetable peeler. Simply peel the beetroot from top to bottom, using a gentle sawing motion. Be careful not to press too hard, as the beetroot can be delicate and prone to breaking. You can also peel small beetroot after boiling them, but this method can be a bit more tricky and may result in a less tender beetroot.

Can I boil small beetroot instead of roasting them?

Yes, you can boil small beetroot instead of roasting them. Simply place the beetroot in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the beetroot is tender when pierced with a fork.

However, it’s worth noting that boiling small beetroot can result in a less flavorful and less tender beetroot than roasting. This is because boiling can cause the beetroot to lose some of its natural sweetness and texture. Roasting, on the other hand, helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the beetroot and results in a tender and flavorful final product.

How do I prevent small beetroot from staining my hands and surfaces?

To prevent small beetroot from staining your hands and surfaces, wear gloves when handling the beetroot and work on a surface that can be easily cleaned. You can also use a stainless steel or ceramic knife and cutting board, as these materials are less prone to staining than wood or plastic.

If you do get beetroot stains on your hands or surfaces, don’t worry! Simply wash your hands with soap and water, and scrub the surfaces with a gentle cleanser. You can also use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to remove beetroot stains from surfaces.

Can I use small beetroot in salads and other raw dishes?

Yes, you can use small beetroot in salads and other raw dishes. Simply peel and dice the beetroot, then add it to your favorite salad or slaw recipe. You can also use raw beetroot in juices and smoothies, or as a topping for soups and other dishes.

Raw beetroot has a sweet and earthy flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Try pairing it with goat cheese and walnuts for a delicious and healthy salad, or use it as a topping for a hearty bowl of borscht. You can also pickle raw beetroot for a tangy and crunchy snack.

Are small beetroot nutritious?

Yes, small beetroot are highly nutritious. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron. They are also low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

Small beetroot are also a good source of nitrates, which can help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health. They are also rich in betalains, which are powerful antioxidants that can help to protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation. Overall, small beetroot are a nutritious and delicious addition to a healthy diet.