Slow-Cooker Tender Roasted Beets
Transform a surplus of fresh beets into a deliciously sweet and tender side dish with this simple slow-cooker recipe. Utilizing low and slow cooking methods, this approach enhances the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of beets while keeping their vibrant color intact. Perfect for meal prep, salad additions, or as a healthy snack, these roasted beets will quickly become a pantry staple. This recipe is flexible; adjust the number of beets based on your available supply, whether it’s from a farmers' market or your local grocery store's reduced rack.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium Beets
10-12 (well scrubbed)
Aluminum Foil
As needed (for wrapping)
Instructions
1
Start by thoroughly scrubbing each beet under running water to remove any dirt and debris.
2
Individually wrap each beet in aluminum foil, ensuring they are well sealed to retain their moisture during cooking.
3
Place the wrapped beets in the slow cooker; they should fit comfortably in a 6-quart cooker without overcrowding.
4
Set the slow cooker to the 'High' setting and cook the beets for 3 to 5 hours depending on their size.
5
To check for doneness, carefully unwrap one of the larger beets and pierce it with a fork; it should be tender and easily pierced.
6
Once cooked, allow the beets to cool slightly before unwrapping and peeling the skins off, which should come off easily.
7
Enjoy the roasted beets immediately or store them in the refrigerator for later use.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main benefit of slow-cooking beets?
Slow cooking enhances the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of the beets while keeping their vibrant color intact.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You only need medium beets and aluminum foil for wrapping.
How many beets should I use for this recipe?
The recipe suggests 10 to 12 medium beets, but it is flexible based on your supply.
Should I scrub the beets before cooking?
Yes, you should thoroughly scrub each beet under running water to remove any dirt and debris.
Why is aluminum foil used in this recipe?
The beets are individually wrapped in foil to retain their moisture while roasting in the slow cooker.
What setting should my slow cooker be on?
Set the slow cooker to the 'High' setting for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook beets in the slow cooker?
On the High setting, beets typically take between 3 to 5 hours depending on their size.
How can I tell if the roasted beets are done?
Carefully unwrap one of the larger beets and pierce it with a fork; it should be tender and easily pierced.
Do I need to peel the beets before cooking?
No, you cook them with the skins on. The skins will come off easily after they are cooked and slightly cooled.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these roasted beets are perfect for meal prep and can be used throughout the week.
How should I store the cooked beets?
You can enjoy them immediately or store them in the refrigerator for later use.
Is this slow cooker beet recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains only beets.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, these roasted beets are gluten-free.
What size slow cooker is recommended?
A 6-quart slow cooker is recommended so the beets fit comfortably without overcrowding.
Can I use these beets in salads?
Absolutely, these tender roasted beets make excellent additions to many types of salads.
Can I eat these beets as a snack?
Yes, they are described as a healthy and delicious snack option.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is designed to provide approximately 10 servings.
Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
No water is needed in the slow cooker; the moisture is retained inside the foil wraps.
Should I wrap the beets together or individually?
Each beet should be individually wrapped in aluminum foil and well sealed.
Can I use large beets instead of medium ones?
Yes, but keep in mind that larger beets may require the full 5 hours or slightly longer to become tender.
How do I remove the skins after cooking?
Once they have cooled slightly, the skins should peel off easily by hand or with a paper towel.
Is it okay if the beets are from a reduced rack?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions it is a great way to use beets from a grocery store's reduced rack.
Are these beets sweet?
Yes, the low and slow cooking process enhances the beets' natural sweetness.
Can I use this for vegetable side dishes?
Yes, it is specifically categorized as a vegetable side dish.
What if my slow cooker is smaller than 6 quarts?
You can still use it, but you may need to cook fewer beets at a time to avoid overcrowding.
Are there any spices used in this basic recipe?
This basic recipe focuses on the beets alone, but you can season them after peeling if desired.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are only 2 items listed: medium beets and aluminum foil.
Does the color bleed into the slow cooker?
Because the beets are wrapped in foil, the vibrant color and juices stay contained.
Can I use these beets for a puree?
Yes, since they are cooked until tender, they would be very easy to blend into a puree.
What is the best way to handle the beets to avoid staining?
You can peel them under cool water or use gloves if you want to avoid staining your hands red.