I’ve always loved beets. Their vibrant color, earthy taste, and versatility in recipes make them a delightful addition to any meal. However, I used to avoid cooking them at home because I found the traditional methods of boiling or roasting to be time-consuming and messy. That was until I discovered a quick and easy way to steam beets in the microwave. Today, I want to share this method with you, so you can enjoy perfectly steamed beets in no time!
Why Choose Microwave Steaming?
When it comes to cooking beets, you might wonder why microwave steaming is a good option. Here are a few reasons why I prefer this method:
1. Time-Saving:
Microwave steaming is incredibly quick. While boiling or roasting beets can take up to an hour, steaming them in the microwave is a matter of minutes. This is especially useful when you’re in a hurry or want a nutritious side dish on a busy weeknight.
2. Retains Nutrients:
Steaming beets in the microwave helps retain more nutrients compared to boiling, as the steam gently cooks the beets without leaching away their vitamins and minerals. This ensures that you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also a healthy one.
3. Minimal Cleanup:
One of the biggest advantages of microwave steaming is the minimal cleanup involved. Unlike boiling, there’s no pot of boiling water to clean, and unlike roasting, there’s no baking sheet to scrub. You simply need a microwave-safe dish and a microwave oven!
How to Steam Beets in the Microwave
Now that you’re convinced of the benefits of microwave steaming, let’s dive into the steps involved in steaming beets using this method:
Step 1: Prep the Beets
Start by choosing fresh, firm beets from your local market. Then, give them a good wash to remove any dirt or debris. Once cleaned, trim off the greens, leaving about an inch of the stems intact. This will help to prevent the beets from bleeding their color during cooking.
Step 2: Steam in a Microwave-Safe Dish
Place the trimmed beets in a microwave-safe dish. To ensure even cooking, it’s essential to cut the beets into similarly sized pieces. If your beets are small, you can leave them whole. However, larger beets should be halved or quartered.
Step 3: Add Water and Cover
Next, add a few tablespoons of water to the dish. This will create steam and help cook the beets. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape, as this will prevent any pressure buildup.
Step 4: Cook in the Microwave
Place the covered dish in the microwave and cook on high power for about 5 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of your beets. After 5 minutes, test the beets by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part. If they’re still firm, continue microwaving at intervals of 1-2 minutes until they reach your desired tenderness.
Step 5: Let Them Rest
Once the beets are cooked to perfection, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Keep in mind that the dish and steam will be hot, so use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands. Allow the beets to rest for a few minutes before handling or peeling to avoid any burns.
Step 6: Peel and Serve
Once the beets have cooled slightly, the skin should easily slide off when gently rubbed using your hands or a paper towel. If you prefer, you can also use a knife to peel the skin. Once peeled, you can slice, dice, or grate the beets as needed. They’re now ready to be incorporated into your favorite dishes or enjoyed on their own!
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Steamed Beets
Steamed beets are incredibly versatile and can elevate the flavors of various recipes. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy your freshly steamed beets:
1. Beet and Goat Cheese Salad:
Toss sliced steamed beets with baby salad greens, crumbled goat cheese, toasted walnuts, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and colorful salad.
2. Beet Hummus:
Blend steamed beets with chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and spices for a vibrant and nutrient-packed twist on traditional hummus.
3. Roasted Beet and Feta Quinoa:
Mix steamed beets with cooked quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
4. Beet Smoothie:
Add steamed beets to your favorite smoothie combination of fruits, leafy greens, and yogurt for a nourishing and energy-boosting drink.
5. Beet Chips:
Thinly slice steamed beets, toss with olive oil, salt, and your choice of spices, then bake them in the oven until crispy for a healthy and addictive snack.
Final Thoughts
Steaming beets in the microwave is a game-changer for anyone who loves these colorful root vegetables but prefers a quick and easy cooking method. With its time-saving nature, nutrient retention, and minimal cleanup, microwave steaming opens up a world of possibilities for beet enthusiasts. So give it a try and enjoy the vibrant goodness of perfectly steamed beets in just a matter of minutes!