If you’re a beet lover or looking to add more variety to your vegetable garden, you may be considering growing Cylindra beets or Touchstone Gold beets. These two popular beet varieties offer unique flavors and characteristics that can make your meals more colorful and delicious. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Cylindra beets and Touchstone Gold beets, their pros and cons, and help you decide which one is right for you.
What are Cylindra Beets?
Cylindra beets, also known as “formanova” beets, are a unique and cylindrical-shaped variety of beet that boasts a striking deep red color. These beets are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful flavor profile that sets them apart from traditional round beets. Their taste is characterized by a subtle sweetness that is less earthy compared to their spherical counterparts. Cylindra beets are favored by many for their long and slender shape, which not only adds to their aesthetic appeal but also makes them exceptionally easy to slice and cook evenly.
When it comes to versatility in the kitchen, Cylindra beets truly shine. Their elongated shape lends itself well to various culinary techniques, such as slicing for roasting or pickling. The sweet and mild flavor of Cylindra beets opens up a world of possibilities for creative dishes, offering a refreshing twist on traditional beet recipes.
Pros of Cylindra Beets
There are numerous advantages to growing and consuming Cylindra beets:
- Their unique shape makes them ideal for slicing and roasting, adding a visually appealing touch to any dish.
- They have a sweeter and milder flavor compared to round beets, making them a favorite among those who prefer a less earthy taste.
- Cylindra beets are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, including folate, potassium, and vitamin C, contributing to a healthy diet.
- Due to their slender shape, Cylindra beets are excellent candidates for pickling, offering a crunchy and flavorful addition to salads and sandwiches.
Cons of Cylindra Beets
Despite their many benefits, Cylindra beets do come with a few drawbacks to consider:
- Their elongated shape may present a challenge when peeling, requiring a bit more effort compared to round beets.
- Given their size, Cylindra beets can take slightly longer to cook, requiring a bit of patience in the kitchen.
- While their milder flavor is a plus for some, it may not appeal to individuals who prefer the more intense earthy taste of traditional beets.
What are Touchstone Gold Beets?
Touchstone Gold beets are a unique and captivating variety of beet that stands out with its stunning golden hue. These beets are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful flavor profile that sets them apart from the traditional red beet varieties. The Touchstone Gold beets are known for their slightly sweeter and milder taste, making them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
When it comes to culinary creations, Touchstone Gold beets are a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish. Whether they are used in salads, roasted dishes, or even pickled for a tangy twist, these golden beets bring a pop of color and flavor to the table. Their vibrant appearance adds a touch of elegance to any meal, making them a popular choice for those looking to impress with both taste and presentation.
Pros of Touchstone Gold Beets
There are numerous advantages to incorporating Touchstone Gold beets into your diet:
- Their striking golden color adds a visual allure to a variety of dishes, making them a standout ingredient.
- Touchstone Gold beets offer a sweeter and milder flavor profile, appealing to those who prefer a less earthy taste in their beets.
- Rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, manganese, and vitamin C, these beets provide a healthy boost to your diet.
- From raw preparations to roasted delights, pickled treats, or even juiced for a refreshing drink, Touchstone Gold beets offer versatility in the kitchen.
Cons of Touchstone Gold Beets
While Touchstone Gold beets come with a host of benefits, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks:
- Due to their vibrant color, Touchstone Gold beets have a higher likelihood of staining cutting boards and hands compared to other beet varieties, requiring extra care during preparation.
- For those who enjoy the robust earthy flavor of traditional red beets, the milder taste of Touchstone Gold beets may not provide the same level of intensity.
- Although gaining popularity, Touchstone Gold beets may not be as readily available in stores as their red counterparts, requiring a bit more effort to source.
When it comes to Cylindra beets, also known as “Formanova,” their elongated shape makes them ideal for slicing into uniform rounds, making them a popular choice for pickling or roasting. These beets are known for their rich, earthy flavor and tender texture when cooked. Their unique cylindrical shape also makes them easier to peel and slice compared to traditional round beets, saving you time in the kitchen.Touchstone Gold beets, on the other hand, are prized for their striking golden-yellow flesh that retains its vibrant color even after cooking. This variety is sweeter than traditional red beets, making them a delightful addition to salads or as a colorful side dish. Their sweet flavor profile pairs well with tangy dressings and creamy cheeses, adding a pop of color and flavor to your culinary creations.Both Cylindra and Touchstone Gold beets are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamin C, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Whether you choose to grow one variety or both in your garden, experimenting with these different beet options will open up a world of culinary possibilities and add a colorful twist to your meals. So why not embrace the diversity of beets and elevate your dishes with their unique flavors and hues?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cylindra beets and Touchstone Gold beets:
- Can I grow Cylindra beets or Touchstone Gold beets in pots?
- How long does it take for Cylindra beets or Touchstone Gold beets to mature?
- Are Cylindra or Touchstone Gold beets suitable for juicing?
- Can I pickle Cylindra or Touchstone Gold beets?
- Are there any special storage requirements for Cylindra or Touchstone Gold beets?
Yes, both beet varieties can be grown in pots, as long as the containers are deep enough to accommodate their root growth. When planting beets in pots, it’s essential to choose a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Additionally, regular watering and adequate sunlight are crucial for the successful growth of beets in containers.
On average, Cylindra beets take around 60-70 days to mature, while Touchstone Gold beets take approximately 50-60 days. However, factors such as temperature, soil quality, and watering frequency can influence the growth rate of beets. To ensure optimal growth and flavor, consider thinning out seedlings to provide adequate space for the roots to develop.
Yes, both beet varieties can be juiced. Their vibrant colors and nutrients make them a wonderful addition to homemade juices. Beets are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for juicing. To enhance the flavor of beet juice, consider combining it with other fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and ginger.
Yes, both beet varieties are excellent for pickling due to their size and shape. Pickled beets are a popular way to preserve the harvest and add a tangy flavor to dishes. You can experiment with different pickling spices and vinegars to create unique flavor profiles that complement the natural sweetness of beets.
Both beet varieties can be stored in a cool, dark place for several weeks to a few months. It’s best to remove the beet greens before storing to prevent wilting. Storing beets in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator can help maintain their freshness. Alternatively, you can store beets in a root cellar or cool basement for longer-term storage.
With these answers in mind, you’re now well-equipped to choose between Cylindra beets and Touchstone Gold beets, and confidently enjoy their unique flavors and versatility in your kitchen. Whether you’re roasting, pickling, or juicing, these colorful root vegetables are sure to bring vibrance and nutrition to your meals.
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