Health Conscious Cooking with Beets

As far as root vegetables go, beets are one of natures healthiest gifts. Not only are they versatile and delicious, they have health benefits that have been suggested to aide in the prevention of heart disease, cancer, and even birth defects. My own experiences with beets began when I worked at a health food store juice bar. Experimenting with different combinations was a daily ritual but I soon noticed the constant orders for ABC juice: apple, beet, and carrot. After trying this delicious mixture I decided to learn more about what makes beets so great and explore how to incorporate this nutritious food into my diet.

Not only are beets great for detoxifying and reducing inflammation, they are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and iron. So whether you are a health nut or just looking to increase the nutrient value of your diet incorporating beets is a great start.

Beets are hardy root vegetables attached to leafy green stalks. Both the root and the stalk are edible and nutrient rich. You can use the leafy green stalk to add to salad or saute with a bit of olive oil and garlic for a yummy serving of greens. The actual beet root can be eaten both raw or cooked, and is a popular addition to salads. I like to add grated raw beets to spinach and feta salad. Often you will find pickled beets on salad bars or in your grocers aisle, try them on salad or just eat them plain.

The Russians and Scandinavians are probably the best known consumers of beets. The popular Russian beet soup Borscht is a savory soup perfect for a blistery fall day made with beets, cabbage, carrots, and often sausage or beef. The Finns have a popular beet salad that is traditionally made at Christmas called Rosolli or just beet salad. This salad is made with cooked potatoes, apples, carrots, onion, pickle, beets, and either sour cream or whipped cream. For the daring pallets add a bit of pickled or salted herring, or even sardines.

If Borscht and Rosolli are not your thing, why not try a light a fresh beet salad. Mix grated beets, onions, and chives, add a bit of raspberry vinegar, honey, garlic, and olive oil. Chill the salad for a bout an hour and enjoy! No matter what your tastes there is a way to prepare beets for you. The best way to find a beet recipe that you will love is to experiment, so get in the kitchen and begin cooking with beets.

Source: www.whfoods.org