Delicious smoked beetroot recipe: a nutritious dish

Beetroots are a versatile and vibrant vegetable that can add a pop of color and nutrition to any meal. Whether you prefer roasting or steaming, there are numerous ways to prepare and enjoy this earthy and slightly bitter root vegetable. In this article, we will explore the benefits of steaming beetroots and provide a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious smoked beetroot recipe.

The Benefits of Steaming Beetroots

Steaming beetroots is a fantastic cooking method that enhances their natural sweetness and preserves their vibrant appearance. When you steam beetroots, their flesh becomes glossy and bright, making them visually appealing and appetizing. Additionally, steaming softens the beetroots, making them tender and more pleasant to eat.

According to Jess Damuck, a food stylist and author of the cookbook Salad Freak!, steaming beetroots allows you to infuse them with other flavors such as spices or citrus zest. This cooking method also keeps the vegetable juicy and easier to peel, as noted by cooking teacher Ronna Welsh, author of The Nimble Cook.

Preparing Beetroots for Steaming

Before steaming beetroots, it is essential to properly prepare them. Start by washing the beetroots with lukewarm water and a clean sponge to remove any dirt or debris. While the beets are generally washed before they hit the market, giving them a thorough wash ensures their cleanliness.

Once washed, you can trim the stems and remove any stringy roots. However, it is important to leave the beet skins intact. The skin helps to retain the beet juices inside the vegetable and will easily slip off after steaming. To make the skin easier to remove, score each end of each beet with an x.

How to Steam Beetroots

Steaming beetroots is a simple and straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly steamed beetroots:

1. Place whole beetroots in a steamer basket above approximately 2 inches of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cover the pot.
3. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Steam small and medium beetroots for about 30 minutes and large beetroots for approximately 50 minutes, or until you can easily pierce the beet with a knife or skewer.

If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use alternative methods to prop up the beetroots above the boiling water. A colander or wire trivet will work as long as the beetroots are resting above the water and the steam can be trapped.

Steaming and Roasting: The Best of Both Worlds

If you're looking to take your beetroot experience to the next level, consider steam-roasting them. This cooking technique combines the benefits of both steaming and roasting, resulting in tender, moist, and flavorful beetroots.

To steam-roast beetroots, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Place medium-sized beetroots (about 3 pounds) in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly in a single layer.
3. Sprinkle the beetroots with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt.
4. Pour approximately 1 1/2 inches of water into the baking dish and cover it tightly with foil.
5. Bake the beetroots until they are very tender, which typically takes around one hour. You can test the largest beetroot's center with a thin sharp knife to determine if it is done.

Once the beetroots have cooled, you can cut them into your desired shape. Welsh recommends wedges as they are a snackable size and can be further cut into matchsticks or diced when needed.

Smoked Beetroot Recipe

Now that you know how to steam and steam-roast beetroots, let's explore a delicious smoked beetroot recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized beetroots (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Wash and trim the beetroots, leaving the skins intact.
3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the beetroots with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Place the beetroots directly on the smoker rack and smoke for approximately 2 hours, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife.
6. Once smoked, remove the beetroots from the smoker and allow them to cool.
7. Peel the skins off the beetroots and slice them into desired shapes.
8. Serve the smoked beetroot as a side dish or incorporate it into salads, sandwiches, or wraps for added flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy the smoky, earthy flavors of this unique smoked beetroot recipe!

Can I use different seasonings for the smoked beetroot recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of your smoked beetroot. Some options to consider include cumin, thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a hint of heat.

Can I use a regular oven instead of a smoker for the recipe?

While a smoker adds an extra layer of flavor, you can achieve similar results by using a regular oven. Simply follow the instructions for steam-roasting the beetroots and then finish them off in the oven at a low temperature (around 225°F) for a couple of hours.

How long can I store the smoked beetroot?

Store the smoked beetroot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it gently before serving.

In Conclusion

Steaming and steam-roasting beetroots are excellent cooking methods that enhance their natural sweetness and preserve their vibrant appearance. Whether you choose to steam, steam-roast, or smoke beetroots, they make a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Try the smoked beetroot recipe provided and explore the endless possibilities of this versatile root vegetable.

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