Beets are an ancient food and this vegetable comes in a variety of hues. They were originally cultivated for their greens. It wasn't until much later that the root became as popular as their greens. I have heard many say that they do not like beets. If you have never had a fresh beet I challenge you to try eating a fresh beet. Their is no comparison. You may even prefer them raw.
If you follow my seasonal blog you may have noticed a trend. When I blog about CSA food, I usually define the nutritional benefits as, "...one of the healthiest foods to eat." Well, beets are no different. They are a nutritional powerhouse and you should find a way to eat them!! Like other vegetables, beets have some pretty amazing health benefits specific only to it (phytonutrients). So as to keep my blog manageable for you, I will be brief by listing the reasons you should eat beets directly quoting Dr. Mercola:
1. Lower Your Blood Pressure- Drinking beet juice may help to lower blood pressure in a matter of hours.
2. Boost Your Stamina- If you need a boost to make it through your next workout, beet juice may again prove valuable.
3.Fight Inflammation- may protect our bodies from environmental stress.
4.Anti-Cancer Properties- they contain phytonutrients that may help protect against cancer.
5.Rich in Valuable Nutrients and Fiber- Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium, manganese, and folate.
6.Detoxification Support- beets are valued for their support in detoxification and helping to purify your blood and your liver.
To store beets, leave the tap root in tact but trim the greens about two inches from the top of the beet. Store the greens and the root unwashed, separately, in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. The greens will keep for a few days and the beets for about a week. It is important to separate the greens from the root or the greens will cause the root to dry out and shrivel up much quicker.
Beets can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, baked, fried, grilled. Add them to soups, salads, or eat them on their own. Don't forget about the beet greens!! It is recommended that the skin be left on if you are cooking beets. Gently wash prior to cooking and once cooked the skin will rub right off. This technique prevents the nutritious juices from cooking out of the beet. If you are preparing raw beets, they will need to be peeled of course. Please click on the recipes button below.
Thank you for reading my blog.
-Dawn Swope CHHC, AADP, BA
References
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/01/25/beets-health-benefits.aspx
http://iadorefood.com/articles/beets-how-to-pick-and-store-them/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/16/raw-beet-recipes_n_1676238.html