The beetroot also known as the table beet or garden beet refers to any of the cultivated varieties of beets. As the name implies, it is a root vegetable with dark purple skin and flesh. The beet is used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.
Beetroot is consumed in different ways catering to the region. Broscht, beet soup is a famous dish served in Eastern Europe. In Poland, beet is combined with horseradish.
Types
Beets are classified into various types based on their color and texture. The most readily available beets are
Red beets: The very commonly found beets. They are dark purple in color, and very sweet.
Golden beets: These are essential add-ons in the salads, mainly because of the bright yellow color. They are a little less sweet compared to the red beets.
Chioggia/striped beets: These are naturally striped beets - in subtle yellow or orange or red or a combination of various colors. The color variance however doesn't affect the taste as it often fades while cooking.
Nutritional Value
1. Beetroot is an excellent source of folate and manganese.
2. Beetroot juice is an amazing antioxidant and it also helps to reduce the blood pressure level.
Did you know?
Beetroot juice can be used to perform litmus test for acidity.
In many popular cultures, it is still believed that if a man and woman eat from the same beetroot, they will fall in love.