Last year we published a feature on beetroot. This year we’re refreshing that feature as we approach the end of beetroot season, with some brand new recipes from our readers and some more brilliant beetroot facts…
And as it’s just about time to be planning your vegetable patches for next year, do bear beetroot in mind. They look great growing in borders or deep enough troughs on window-ledges because the leaves are so beautiful.
In Season?
In season (roughly) from May to October and then available wher they have been stored.
Buy?Firm, unblemished roots, unwashed keep longer. Don’t buy the wrinkly ones!
Store?In a cool place, for a week or two. Under proper conditions, will keep longer. If you’re using the leaves, these will keep in the fridge for a day or two.
Freeze?If cooked, yes.
Cook?Twist off the leaves (wear gloves!), leaving the leaf base intact. Trim the root. Scrub. Roast for an hour or boil / pressure cook for up to 20 minutes.
Little Known Facts from the beetroot fan club – www.lovebeetroot.co.uk:
- Beetroot contains high amounts of boron, which may explain its reputation as an ancient aphrodisiac
- Beetroot also contains betaine, a substance that relaxes the mind and is used to treat depression… so if you needed any more excuse to tuck in…
- The colouring from beetroot is used to colour things like strawberry jam and tomato puree
- Massaging your scalp each night with the cooled water from boiling beetroots is reputed to cure dandruff
Beetroot Recipes:
Beetroot and Cheese PieBeetroot and Celeriac Gratin
Ripple Farm Winter Veg Cottage Pie with Grated Beetroot
Categories: seasonal eating
