Beets, also known as beetroot, are a nutritious root vegetable that are rich in vitamins and minerals. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or preserved, and they add a vibrant color and sweet, earthy flavor to a variety of dishes. However, beets can be quite perishable if not stored properly. In this guide, we will discuss the best methods for storing and preserving beets to ensure they remain fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Storing Fresh Beets
Storing Beets in the Refrigerator
The easiest and most common method of storing fresh beets is in the refrigerator. According to the University of California’s Postharvest Technology Center, beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Here’s how:
- Remove the beet greens if they are still attached. The greens can draw moisture away from the beetroot, causing it to shrivel and lose flavor.
- Place the beets in a plastic bag or wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- Store the beets in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This will help maintain the right level of humidity for the beets.
It’s important to note that beet greens are also edible and highly nutritious. They can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storing Beets in a Root Cellar
If you have a large quantity of beets, you might consider storing them in a root cellar or a similar cool, dark, and humid environment. This is a traditional method of storing root vegetables that can keep beets fresh for several months. Here’s how:
- Again, remove the beet greens if they are still attached.
- Do not wash the beets before storing them. The soil helps to keep them fresh.
- Place the beets in a container filled with slightly damp sand, sawdust, or peat moss. This helps to maintain the right level of humidity.
- Store the container in a cool, dark, and humid environment. The ideal temperature is between 32 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Check the beets regularly and remove any that show signs of spoilage to prevent it from spreading to the others.
Preserving Beets
Canning Beets
Canning is a popular method of preserving beets that can extend their shelf life for up to a year or more. The National Center for Home Food Preservation provides a detailed guide for canning beets. Here’s a simplified version:
- Wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the greens, leaving about an inch of stem.
- Boil the beets until they are tender, then peel them and cut them into slices or cubes.
- Prepare a pickling solution of vinegar, sugar, water, and pickling spices.
- Pack the beets into sterilized jars, pour in the pickling solution, and seal the jars.
- Process the jars in a boiling water canner for the recommended amount of time.
Always follow the specific instructions and safety guidelines for canning to ensure the beets are preserved safely.
Freezing Beets
Freezing is another effective method of preserving beets. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension provides the following steps for freezing beets:
- Wash the beets and trim off the greens, leaving about a half inch of stem.
- Boil the beets until they are tender, then cool them quickly in ice water.
- Peel the beets and cut them into slices or cubes.
- Blanch the beet slices or cubes in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool them quickly in ice water.
- Drain the beets and pack them into freezer bags or containers, leaving a half inch of headspace.
- Seal the bags or containers and freeze the beets.
Freezing preserves the flavor and nutritional value of the beets, and they can be used in a variety of dishes once thawed.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a gardener with a bumper crop of beets or simply a beet lover who wants to enjoy this nutritious vegetable year-round, proper storage and preservation are key. By following these methods, you can keep your beets fresh and delicious for weeks, months, or even longer. Remember, always check stored or preserved beets for signs of spoilage before eating, and when in doubt, throw it out.
Keep Your Beets—and Garden—Thriving
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