Beetroot is rich in nutrients such as folate and vitamin C and is helpful in pregnancy, anemia, or hypertension. Let’s find out what all the benefits are. They are not recommended in case of irritable bowel syndrome, as they could worsen the symptoms.
Curiosities About Red Beetroot
Beetroot, also called red turnip, has been known since ancient times, even before the Christian era.Antioxidant molecules give the characteristic color of red beet called betalains used as natural dyes in the food industry, recognizable on the label with the code E 162. The root is mainly consumed from the beetroot, but the leaves are also excellent for their richness in vitamins; it is therefore recommended to eat both sides.
What Is The Difference Between Turnip And Beetroot?
Beetroot is often inappropriately referred to as a red turnip. However, they are not quite the same. Both represent a root, but while the turnip (Brassica rapa) belongs to the Brassicaceae family, the beet (Beta vulgaris) belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family.
Nutritional Values And Benefits Of Red Beetroot
The calorie content of beets is shallow, around 40 calories per 100 grams. What are its properties? It helps fight cholesterol and constipation thanks to a large amount of dietary fiber. It is excellent for removing intestinal mucus; it has a good level of vitamin C and a superior level of folate. Among the trace elements, manganese, potassium, and selenium stand out; it is considered laxative, stomachic, hepatoprotective, and rich in anti-aging effects.
Recent studies (from 2021) highlight its beneficial effects in breast cancer prevention; it is an excellent antiviral, especially against different types of herpes. Studies published in Cancer Letters attest to its preventive qualities in the case of liver and skin cancer; it also lowers blood pressure, helps the cardiovascular system, and improves sports performance. It has an excellent action in improving blood circulation, and therefore oxygenation of the brain, with a preventive effect in the face of discomfort due to aging.
How To Cook Red Beets
Beetroot can be cooked in many ways: boiled, steamed, or baked. For convenience, it can be beneficial to buy pre-cooked beets (usually steamed) and sold under a vacuum in the refrigerator department of supermarkets. In this case, they are ready to use and can be cut into cubes in a salad or browned on a hot plate to enhance the taste. It should be noted that steam cooking is preferable to maintain the properties of red beets. There is also red beet juice on the market, which, if necessary, can be prepared at home using an extractor.
Recipes With Red Beets
With a sweetish taste, cooked red beetroot lends itself well to dampen some dishes’ acidity or
bitter taste.
Potato, Beetroot, And Egg Salad
Ingredients
1. One potato ;
2. One beetroot;
3. Two eggs ;
4. One tablespoon of black olives ;
5. One clove of garlic ;
6. One tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil ;
7. Salt to taste;
8. Pepper to taste;
9. Parsley to taste.
Preparation
1. Boil the potatoes and, separately, the beets for about 15 minutes. For convenience,
vacuum-packed pre-cooked beets can be used.
2. Meanwhile, boil the eggs for about 9 minutes.
3. Once all the ingredients are cooked, let them cool.
4. Peel the potatoes and beets and cut them into slices.
5. Shell the cooked eggs, cut them into wedges, and add them to the potatoes and beets,
along with a tablespoon of black olives.
6. Season with a clove of garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Also Read: CHESTNUTS: PROPERTIES, NUTRITIONAL VALUES, CALORIES
