The Sweet, Earthy Flavor of Beets: What Does Beet Taste Like?

I love beets! It’s one of my favorite vegetables, and I think it’s underrated.

Beets have a long history – they’ve been cultivated for thousands of years – and they’re a staple in many different cuisines.

I think it’s really important to understand the flavor of beets because it can help you appreciate them more and use them in new and interesting ways.

What Do Beets Taste Like?

To me, beets have a really unique flavor profile. Beets taste sweet, but not overly so – there’s a slight tanginess to them as well.

Beet also has a really earthy quality, which I love. The texture is slightly firm, but also tender and juicy.

Also Read: Why Arugula is a Must-Try Green: A Guide to its Distinctive Flavor

I think the way you cook beets can affect their flavor, too – roasting or grilling them brings out their sweetness while boiling or steaming can make them milder.

Health Benefits of Beets

Beets are also really good for you. They’re low in calories but high in nutrients, and they’re a great source of fiber.

Beets also have antioxidant properties, which can help protect your cells from damage.

There’s some evidence to suggest that beet can help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance.

Best 5 Beets dishes

1. Roasted Beet Salad

This is one of my all-time favorite ways to enjoy beets. To make it, I start by roasting beets until they’re tender, then slicing them and tossing them with greens, goat cheese, and a simple vinaigrette.

The sweetness of the beets pairs really well with the tangy goat cheese, and the vinaigrette adds a nice acid to balance everything out.

2. Beet and Goat Cheese Tart

If you’re looking for a slightly fancier way to enjoy beets, this tart is a great option. To make it, I roll out a pastry crust and spread a layer of goat cheese on top, then arrange sliced beets on top and bake until everything is golden and bubbly.

The result is a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

3. Borscht

This is a classic Eastern European soup that features beets as the star ingredient. To make it, I start by sauteing onions and garlic, then adding chopped beets, carrots, and potatoes and simmering everything in a beef or vegetable broth.

The soup is finished with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped dill, which adds a bright, fresh flavor.

4. Beet Hummus

If you’re a fan of hummus, you’ll love this beet version. To make it, I blend cooked beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until everything is smooth and creamy.

The resulting hummus is bright pink and has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that’s really delicious.

5. Pickled Beets

If you’re looking for a way to preserve your beets, pickling is a great option. I like to make a simple pickling solution with vinegar, sugar, and spices, then slice the beets and pack them into jars.

The pickling process gives the beets a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect for adding to sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls.

Final Word

I think beets are a really versatile and delicious vegetable. They have a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and earthy, and they’re packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re a longtime beet lover or you’re just starting to explore this vegetable, I hope this post has inspired you to try beets in new and interesting ways.