Beets are a fantastic addition to any diet, known for their deep, earthy flavor and numerous health benefits. However, peeling them can sometimes seem a bit daunting due to their firm texture and the potential mess from their vibrant juice. Fear not! Here are two easy methods to peel beets that will make this task as simple and clean as possible.

Method 1: Peeling Raw Beets

Tools Needed:

• A sharp vegetable peeler or paring knife

• Cutting board

• Kitchen gloves (optional, to avoid staining your hands)

Steps:

1. Wash the Beets: Start by thoroughly rinsing the beets under cold water. Use a brush to scrub off any dirt, especially if they still have some earth on them.

2. Trim the Ends: Cut off the top and the root end of the beet. This makes it easier to peel and helps the beet to sit flat on the cutting board.

3. Peel the Beet: Using your vegetable peeler or paring knife, gently peel away the skin of the beet. Start from the top and move downward. If you’re using a knife, take care to peel away from your body to avoid any slips.

4. Wash Again: Once peeled, give the beets another quick rinse to remove any lingering bits of skin or dirt.

Method 2: Peeling Cooked Beets

Tools Needed:

• Pot for boiling

• Cold water

• Paper towels or clean kitchen towel

Steps:

1. Boil the Beets: Place the beets in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Let the beets cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, typically about 30-40 minutes depending on their size.

2. Cool the Beets: Once cooked, drain the beets and immediately submerge them in a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and makes the skins easier to remove.

3. Peel the Beets: When the beets are cool enough to handle, you can easily rub the skin off with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel. The skins should slip off without much effort.

Tips for Handling Beets

• Avoid Stains: Beets are notorious for their staining juice. Wearing kitchen gloves can help protect your hands, and using a glass or stainless steel cutting board can prevent staining.

• Storage: Peeled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

• Useful Leftovers: Don’t throw away the beet greens! They can be cooked similarly to spinach and are rich in nutrients.

Whether you choose to peel your beets raw or cook them first, both methods are straightforward and will prepare your beets perfectly for whatever delicious dish you have planned. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful, nutritious benefits of beets in your meals!