Many shoppers may pass by beets at the grocery store. More than 1 of the respondents named beets as their least favorite vegetable (only turnips were more despised).
Why aren’t these naturally sweet root vegetables loved? Studies show that it may be the earthy smell and flavor that’s the result of a compound called geosmin, which can be unpleasant to many people. However, this compound tends to concentrate in the skin, which makes the beets more enjoyable after they have been peeled. These root vegetables are packed with nutrients and contain a myriad of health benefits that shoppers will want to add to their shopping cart.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 1 cup of raw beets contains 59 calories, 13 grams (g) of total carbohydrates, 9 g of sugar, 3.8 g of dietary fiber, and 2 g of protein. Beets also contain powerful plant compounds called betalains, which contain both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Beets also provide a good source of dietary fiber and potassium, and a good source of folic acid to support a healthy digestive tract and a healthy heart.
Additionally, beets and beet juice are rich sources of dietary nitrates, according to the National Institutes of Health. These compounds are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow. This increased blood flow leads to better circulation, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body. Beet juice acts as a natural ergogenic aid, a substance that enhances energy production, use and recovery, and may even increase endurance, according to research published in . I have. The forefront of nutrition science Even the stems and leaves of beets are edible, can be eaten raw or cooked, and are packed with nutrients like folic acid and vitamins C, K, and A, according to the University of Maine.
In addition to their many nutritional benefits, beets are extremely versatile and can withstand roasting, pickling, and shredding. can be stored. If you want less prep work, you can find them cooked, bottled, canned, or steamed and packaged, like Melissa sells.
While “beetroot red” tends to be a common association, these root vegetables also come in shades of gold, white and candy stripes (the latter known as chiogga) and look great on a plate. It means visible. So give Beat a chance. The following recipes are sweet and savory, so I’ll let you (and everyone else who tries them) see what you’ve been missing.