Market Look-For’s

• Tops-on means they were dug within the week. Greens should be perky and skin should be free of deep blemishes
• No tops, probably means they have been stored for a while. Look for firm skin and no sponginess when squeezed.
• Similar sized beets will cook at the same rate

Storage

• Remove tops and store separately. If left on the beets will respire moisture more quickly
• Store roots in a paper bag in a plastic bag in the fridge or cellar. Plastic keeps moisture in; paper shields light and wicks excess moisture away to prevent mold
• Should store for months on end

Notes

• The lighter the flesh of the beet the less earthy (more sugary sweet) the flavor
• I cook large batches of beets at a time and keep the extra in the fridge for a quick meal. Tip and tail the beets toss with olive oil, salt, pepper and any herbs you have on hand. Place in a roasting pan with a splash of water and cover with tinfoil. Roast at 325-375 until tender when pierced with a knife. Rub the skins off with a towel after cooking.
• Also good raw or peeled then pan-roasted when cut thin.