Your grandmother’s dedication to making beetroot and carrots three times a week speaks volumes about the dish’s health benefits and delicious taste. Beetroots and carrots are both nutrient-dense vegetables that offer a myriad of health benefits, including improved digestion, better vision, and enhanced immune function. Here’s how you can recreate this beloved recipe at home, capturing the essence of a dish that is both hearty and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium beetroots, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting, giving the vegetables a slightly caramelized flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash, peel, and dice the beetroots into small, even cubes.
- Peel and slice the carrots into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 3: Season the Vegetables
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beetroots and carrots.
- Add the minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the pieces are coated with the seasoning.
Step 4: Roast
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, which could cause them to steam rather than roast.
- Place in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and have a golden edge.
Step 5: Add a Tangy Twist (Optional)
- If using, drizzle balsamic vinegar or lemon juice over the roasted vegetables in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an added zing.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These roasted beetroots and carrots make a delicious side dish or can be a great addition to salads, bowls, or as a standalone snack.
Health Benefits:
- Beetroots: Rich in fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C, beetroots are great for improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and increasing exercise performance.
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants, carrots are beneficial for eye health and have been linked to lower cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
Grandma’s beetroot and carrot recipe is not only a testament to traditional cooking but also a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. This dish is versatile, nutritious, and flavorful, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Give it a try and you might just find yourself making it three times a week, just like your grandma!
