I remember the first time I bought a bunch of fresh beets from the farmer’s market. They were these gorgeous deep red bulbs, with their vibrant green tops still intact. I stood there, trying to figure out how to cook them. Roasting seemed like the obvious choice, but I wasn’t keen on waiting an hour for them to cook in the oven. That’s when a friend suggested microwaving them. I was skeptical at first, but I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that microwaving beets would become my go-to cooking method. In this article, I will share with you a quick and easy guide on how long to microwave beets.
The Versatility of Beets
Beets are a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From salads to smoothies, beets add a beautiful color and a unique flavor to any dish. Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with essential nutrients. Beets are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. They are also known for their antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that beets have become a popular choice for health-conscious individuals.
Preparing Beets for Microwaving
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about how to prepare beets for microwaving.
1. Start by washing the beets thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Trim the tops and tails off the beets. You can save the greens for another recipe, like sautéing or adding them to a salad.
3. If your beets are larger in size, you may want to cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the microwave.
Microwaving Beets
Now that our beets are prepped and ready, it’s time to cook them in the microwave. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your beets and the wattage of your microwave. Here’s a general guideline:
1. Place the beets in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and cook the beets more evenly.
2. Microwave the beets on high power for 4 minutes. After 4 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and give the beets a stir. This will help ensure that they cook evenly.
3. Return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork. Keep in mind that smaller beets will cook faster than larger ones.
4. Once the beets are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a few minutes before handling. The beets will be hot, so be sure to use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands.
Peeling and Storing Microwaved Beets
After the beets have cooled down, it’s time to peel and store them.
1. Using your hands or a paper towel, gently rub the skin off the beets. The skin should easily slip off, revealing the vibrant colored flesh underneath.
2. If you prefer, you can also use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin.
3. Once the beets are peeled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be enjoyed cold in salads or reheated in the microwave for a quick and easy side dish.
Conclusion
Microwaving beets is a quick and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. By following these simple steps, you can have tender and delicious beets in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re looking to add some color to your salad or whip up a nutritious side dish, microwaving beets is a game-changer. So the next time you find yourself staring at a bunch of fresh beets, give this cooking method a try. You won’t be disappointed!