Fresh Baked Harvard Beets π π₯
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: 3 cups of beets
Calories: 173.1 per serving
Rating: βοΈβοΈβοΈβοΈβοΈ
Description
Harvard beets are a delightful treat, especially when made from fresh, oven-baked beets. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of the beets, elevating them from a simple side dish to a star of your meal. It’s easy, healthy, and bursting with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes, making it a delightful addition to any weeknight dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds beets πΏ
- 1/3 cup sugar π
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch π½
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar π
- 1/4 cup water π§
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter π§
- Salt, to taste π§
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Trim all but about 1 inch off the stem and root ends of the beets. Do not wash or peel them at this stage. Simply remove any dirt with a paper towel. Place the beets in a baking pan, and tightly seal the pan with aluminum foil to create a cozy little roasting environment for our ruby gems. ππ |
| 2 | Bake the beets in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. This slow roast will coax out their natural sugars, making them tender and incredibly flavorful. ππ₯ |
| 3 | Cool the beets until they’re just warm enough to handle. Now, it’s time to peel off those skins! Remove the roots, stems, and skins from the beets, and dice them into charming little 1/4-inch cubes. You should end up with roughly 3 cups of this vibrant goodness. Set them aside for a moment. π₯£πͺ |
| 4 | In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, cider vinegar, and water. Whisk them together over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Keep whisking for about 30 seconds, allowing the sauce to thicken and transform into a luscious glaze. π―π₯ |
| 5 | Remove the saucepan from the heat, and whisk in the tablespoon of unsalted butter. This luxurious addition will add a velvety richness to our beet dish, making it truly irresistible. π§π |
| 6 | Gently fold in our beautifully diced beets into this glossy, sweet-and-sour sauce. Allow the beets to heat through, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning with a sprinkle of salt to suit your preference. πΆοΈπ₯£ |
| 7 | Finally, serve your fresh baked Harvard beets at room temperature. They’re ready to dazzle your taste buds with their vibrant colors and irresistible flavors. Whether as a side dish or a standalone star, these beets are sure to steal the show! ππ΄ |
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing Beets: Look for small to medium-sized beets with vibrant, firm skins. This indicates freshness and sweetness.
- Gloves: Wear gloves when handling beets to prevent staining your hands.
- Variations: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or a splash of orange juice for citrusy brightness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for a few days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again and again!
This Fresh Baked Harvard Beets recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional goodness. With its low protein, low cholesterol, and healthy profile, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any day of the week. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the beet-stained hands, and let’s create some culinary magic together! π©β¨
Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of roasting beets fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Here’s to good food, good health, and good times shared around the table! π₯πΏ
Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Fresh Baked Harvard Beets, and let their vibrant flavors brighten up your day! Bon appΓ©tit! π½οΈπ
