Harvard Beets with a Twist

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and sliced (500g) 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and sliced (500g)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cornstarch 1 teaspoon (5g) cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g) dried thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.25g) cayenne pepper (optional) 1/8 teaspoon (0.25g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 28g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the sliced beets. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the beets are tender. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, butter, lemon juice, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. 3.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the sauce until it thickens, stirring constantly. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked beets to the sauce and stir gently to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. 6.
   Serve the Harvard Beets warm as a side dish or as a topping for salads.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beets — Make sure to choose beets that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid beets that are soft or have blemishes. To prevent staining, wear gloves while peeling and slicing the beets.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a sweeter dish, add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
• Serve the Harvard Beets with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
• Leftover Harvard Beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Harvard Beets as a side dish alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak. They also make a great topping for salads, adding a burst of flavor and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Harvard Beets on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and drizzle some of the sauce over the top. The vibrant red color of the beets will make for an eye-catching presentation.