I feel like so many unique vegetables are becoming mainstream: kale, collards, and one of my personal favorites, beets. Most of you are probably familiar with beets but would rather enjoy an alternate veggie like a sweet potato or broccoli. But beets are so incredibly delicious and satisfying when prepared the right way. Not only that, but they are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, potent carotenoids in supporting overall eye health. In other words, the babies are better for your eyes than carrots! Beets also provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxification support. And trust me, the list goes on.
Last weekend I made the most amazing beet recipe. It involves leeks and ginger too which are some of the most powerful ingredients for detoxification. I hope you make this recipe, you wont regret it!
The Best Beets
3-4 beets with beet greens
3-4 large garlic cloves
1 cup leeks, chopped
4-5 slices fresh ginger
1/2-1cup chicken stock (less sodium)
Salt
Pepper
Red Pepper Flakes
EVOO
Butter
Rinse beets thoroughly. They can be a little sandy! Cut the greens off the head of the beats and set aside. Quarter the beets, and toss them with EVOO, salt and pepper. (no need to peel them yet) Put them on a baking sheet and roast them at 400 degrees until a fork goes easily through them.
In a large saute pan, melt 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp EVOO, add chopped leaks and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Add the roughly chopped beet greens and stems and add a touch more salt and pepper. (you must season every layer) Add the red pepper flakes (or leave them out if you don't want any extra heat), and the sliced ginger. Cover with chicken stock and let the mixture simmer and reduce on low heat.
When the beets are done roasting, take then out of the oven and let them cool. When they are cool to the touch, peel the outer skin. Place the quartered beets in the saute mixture and mash lightly with a fork. This will make the mixture a little more creamy.
Let simmer until everything is heated through. Serve as a veggie side, over quinoa or cous cous, or over a piece of delicate fish!
