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Honored Contributor
Posts: 14,000
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?

Two posts sort of questioned if you can boil or roast beets quickly before slipping the skins off.  Nope.  Both methods require quite a bit of time to both get the skin off and/or cook completely.  If I were putting beets with a roast chicken, I would cook them almost completely through with either method, slip the skins off, then add to the chicken with the carrots.  Obviously the two steps will be more time consuming, but worth it. I'd also add a couple peeled onions.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,711
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?

I roast mine either with or without foil BUT never peel them prior to roasting.

 

After roasting I put on a pair of my vinyl gloves and peel.  Never had any problems -- plus i use a paper towel to "hold" them.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,523
Registered: ‎09-24-2011

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?


@Kachina624wrote:

Has anyone tried microwaving beets?


Never thought of that, @Kachina624.  Have you done it? If so, how long?

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,523
Registered: ‎09-24-2011

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?


@depglasswrote:

Two posts sort of questioned if you can boil or roast beets quickly before slipping the skins off.  Nope.  Both methods require quite a bit of time to both get the skin off and/or cook completely.  If I were putting beets with a roast chicken, I would cook them almost completely through with either method, slip the skins off, then add to the chicken with the carrots.  Obviously the two steps will be more time consuming, but worth it. I'd also add a couple peeled onions.


Thanx, @depglass.  I love onions, but am afraid to add them 'cause I share with my furbaby and although I wouldn't give him an onion, don't know if any of the juices might adversely affect him.  Sorry if I sound strange, but I always add meat and veggies to his kibble as he needs the extra vitamins, plus it's only me so sharing reduces leftovers.

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Posts: 78,361
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?


@eddyandmewrote:

@Kachina624wrote:

Has anyone tried microwaving beets?


Never thought of that, @Kachina624.  Have you done it? If so, how long?


@eddyandme.  No, I've never prepared fresh beets.  The canned ones work for me.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment
Honored Contributor
Posts: 26,758
Registered: ‎10-03-2011

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?

[ Edited ]

@eddyandmewrote:

Tired of the canned beets, but the thought of peeling beets prohibits me from buying them.

 

I know if you're going to use them in a salad you can quickly heat them up in boiling water then the peel will easily come off - never tried it though.  I love hot beets.

 

Any methods you use?

 


@eddyandme- Do you shop at Costco? They have cooked and peeled beets in their refrigerator area - ready to eat as is.  I've bought them before and enjoyed them.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,523
Registered: ‎09-24-2011

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?


@JeanLouiseFinchwrote:

@eddyandmewrote:

Tired of the canned beets, but the thought of peeling beets prohibits me from buying them.

 

I know if you're going to use them in a salad you can quickly heat them up in boiling water then the peel will easily come off - never tried it though.  I love hot beets.

 

Any methods you use?

 


@eddyandme- Do you shop at Costco? They have cooked and peeled beets in their refrigerator area - ready to eat as is.  I've bought them before and enjoyed them.


Wish I did, @JeanLouiseFinch.  I'd be scooping up beets!

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,051
Registered: ‎10-21-2010

Re: Best Way To Peel Beets Prior To Roasting?

Found this on line.  BOOP

 

About Beets

Although dark red beets are most common, orange, yellow, white and red-striped varieties are available at farmers markets and grocery stores. While you can find beets year-round, they're best from June through October. Select beets that are firm and heavy with smooth, blemish-free skin. If you can find beets still attached to their leafy greens, cook the leaves as you would kale, collard greens or Swiss chard. Raw beets will remain fresh in your refrigerator for up to two weeks, while cooked beets will be fine for up to seven days.

Preparing the Beets

It's best to trim the beet stems and leaves before microwaving, but be sure to leave at least 1 inch of the stem intact. Keeping the roots and a small amount of the stem attached prevents the beets from leaking moisture, color and nutrients. Wash the beets thoroughly under cold, running water before cooking. Use a vegetable brush to dislodge any dirt or debris that may be stuck to the beets.

Microwave Instructions

Place the beets in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of water to the bowl -- 2 to 4 tablespoons should be enough. Cover the dish and microwave the beets on high until they are easily pierced with a fork. Depending on the size of the beets and the power of your microwave, the beets should be ready in 10 to 15 minutes. Always use beets of a similar size to ensure even cooking.

Slicing and Peeling

If the beets are fully cooked, the skin should slip off easily. Allow the beets to cool for at least five minutes before you attempt to peel them. Peeling them can be messy, so wear an apron to avoid staining your clothes. Slice off the roots and stems before attempting to peel the beets. Hold the beet using a paper towel or rubber gloves, then rub the beet to peel away the skin. If the skin doesn't come loose easily, the beets could probably use a few more minutes in the microwave.