What Do Beets Taste Like?
Jan 23, 2025

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What do beets taste like? A โburningโ question for so many.ย
Beets are a vegetable that often sparks curiosity due to their vibrant color and unique flavor profile. If you’ve never tried them before, you might be wondering: What do beets actually taste like?
The flavor of beets can be a bit surprising for those new to the veggie. They have a distinctly earthy taste, often described as rich and slightly sweet. The combination of earthy and sweet makes them a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.
The taste of beets can also vary depending on how they’re cooked. When roasted or boiled, the sweetness tends to intensify, making the veggie more tender and mellow in flavor. Raw beets, on the other hand, have a crunchier texture with a sharper, more pronounced earthy taste.
If you’re trying to incorporate beets into your meal rotation for the first time, you might find their flavor surprising. But with the right seasoning and preparation, they can become a delightful addition. Whether youโre enjoying them in a salad, roasted, or even in a smoothie, understanding how beets taste is the first step to fully appreciating their complex flavor.
What Are Beets?
Beets are a root vegetable and are oftentimes referred to as beetroot. They are typically recognized by their deep red or purple color. Although, they can also come in varieties like golden yellow or even white. A beet is typically described as rounded or globular in shape, with a slightly flattened top. However, depending on the variety, beets can also be more elongated and tapered, with a conical shape.
Beets are commonly enjoyed both raw and cooked. They have a distinct earthy, slightly sweet flavor that becomes milder when roasted or boiled.
Beets are known for their impressive nutritional profile which we will dive into next.
Nutritional Overview of Beets
Beets are known for their impressive nutritional profile. They are rich in vitamins such as folate, vitamin C, and various B vitamins. Beets are particularly rich in folate, an important B-vitamin that plays a key role in cell division and DNA synthesis. They also contain a significant amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system, aids in collagen production, and helps the body absorb iron.
Beets additionally provide minerals such as potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function.
In terms of dietary fiber, beets offer a good amount, which is essential for digestive health. Beets are also known for their high content of betalains, potent antioxidants that give them their distinctive color and have anti-inflammatory properties. One of the most notable aspects of beets’ nutritional profile is their high nitrate content, which has been linked to improved blood circulation and reduced blood pressure.
As a low-calorie food with a moderate glycemic index, beets are a great addition to a balanced diet, offering both nutritional benefits and a unique flavor to a variety of dishes.
How To Select Beets
When selecting beets, it’s important to look for firm, smooth roots that are free from blemishes or cracks. Select beets with smooth skin and a deep, rich color. Ideally, choose beets that are medium-sized, as larger beets tend to have a more fibrous texture and a stronger, sometimes earthy flavor. Smaller beets, on the other hand, tend to be more tender and sweeter. If buying beets with their greens still attached, look for vibrant, fresh-looking leaves. The greens should be crisp and not wilting or yellowing.
In addition to the appearance, itโs also helpful to consider the weight of the beet when choosing the best ones. Beets should feel heavy for their size, which suggests they are full of moisture and will have a tender texture when cooked. If possible, avoid beets that feel overly light, as they may be dried out or not as flavorful.
Learn more on How to Select, Store and Serve Beets.
How To Cut Beets
Donโt be overwhelmed with the thought of cutting beets. They have a bad reputation for being messy, but itโs much easier than you think. First, start by washing the beets thoroughly. Once clean, trim off the beet greens about an inch above the root.
If you’re planning to cook the beets whole, there’s no need to peel them yet, as the skin will come off easily after cooking. However, if you’re cutting raw beets for salads or other dishes, itโs best to peel them first. This can be done using a vegetable peeler or by cutting off the top and bottom of the beet, creating a flat surface, and then slicing off the skin with a sharp knife.
To cut beets into smaller pieces, place the beet on a cutting board and use a sharp chef’s knife to cut it into wedges or cubes, depending on your recipe. If you’re looking for thin slices, you can slice the beet horizontally or vertically, depending on the desired presentation. For uniform pieces, it’s helpful to cut the beet in half first, then cut each half into quarters or smaller wedges before slicing.
How To Enjoy Beets
Beets are incredibly versatile, and there are many delicious ways to enjoy them and their nutrients. Below you will find a list of ideas to inspire your next beet dish:
Roasted Beets โ Roast whole or sliced beets in the oven, crock pot or air fryer. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to help caramelize and tenderize the beats and bring out their earthy flavor. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
Beet Salad โ Toss roasted or boiled beets with mixed greens, goat cheese, walnuts, and a simple vinaigrette for a fresh, flavorful salad.
Beet Juice or Smoothie โ Blend raw beets into a juice or smoothie with fruits like apples, oranges, or berries, along with some ginger or lemon for added zest. And for a fun twist, turn the juice into popsicles.
Did You Know? You can use beet juice to dye your hard boiled eggs ping!
Pickled Beets โ We love pickled everything. Slice beets and pickle them in vinegar, sugar, and spices. These make a tangy addition to salads or sandwiches.
Beet Hummus โ Blend roasted beets with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a colorful, nutritious twist on classic hummus.
Beet Chips โ Slice beets thinly and bake (in the oven or air fryer) with a little olive oil and salt for a crispy, healthy snack.
Veggie Kebabs – Beets pair well with other veggies for a nutrient-dense side dish.
With so many options, you can enjoy beets in everything from savory meals to sweet treats, ensuring a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.
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