Orange Beets Recipe
Overview:
Warm, earthy beets combined with zesty orange and a touch of butter create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This Canadian-inspired recipe is not only kid-friendly but also a comforting choice for chilly winter evenings. With just a little over an hour of total cooking time, it’s a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the flavorful world of Orange Beets!
Ingredients:
- 2 large beets
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sliced almonds
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 51.9
- Fat: 3.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1.3g
- Cholesterol: 5.1mg
- Sodium: 82.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.6g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 1g
Instructions:
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Prepare Beets:
- Leave the root and about 1 inch of stem on the beets. Trim the tops and scrub them thoroughly with a brush to remove any dirt.
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Cook Beets:
- Place the prepared beets in a large saucepan and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then cover the saucepan, reduce the heat, and let the beets simmer for approximately 1 hour or until they are tender.
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Cool and Peel:
- Once the beets are cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- After draining, allow the beets to cool slightly. Then, trim off the root ends and gently rub off the skins.
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Cube Beets:
- Cut the peeled beets into cubes, measuring approximately 3 1/2 cups in total. Set aside.
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Cook with Flavor:
- In a large nonstick frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the cubed beets to the pan, along with the grated orange zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and ground cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook until the liquid reduces to a thin syrup-like consistency, which typically takes about 12 minutes.
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Serve:
- Once the beets are cooked to perfection and the flavors are melded together, transfer them to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Serving:
This Orange Beets recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Serve it warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course, or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian option. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely impress your family and guests alike.
Tips:
- To save time, you can cook the beets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to proceed with the recipe.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or increase the amount of cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile.
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an additional burst of freshness and color.
Conclusion:
With its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and nutritional benefits, Orange Beets are a versatile dish that deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting a dinner party with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Embrace the beauty of seasonal produce and indulge in the delightful combination of earthy beets and citrusy orange. Enjoy every flavorful bite! ππ₯