Beetroot is a vibrant, nutritious vegetable that adds a splash of color and a sweet, earthy flavor to your meals. But cooking beets can sometimes feel like a long process, especially when roasting or boiling takes over an hour. Luckily, the microwave offers a fast and convenient way to cook beetroot without sacrificing taste or texture. If you’re wondering how do you cook beetroot in the microwave, this friendly guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
Why Microwave Beetroot?
Microwaving beetroot is a fantastic option for busy cooks who want to enjoy this superfood without the wait. It’s:
– Fast: Typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, compared to an hour or more for roasting.
– Simple: Requires minimal prep and cleanup.
– Healthy: Steaming in the microwave preserves nutrients better than boiling.
– Versatile: Cook whole or cut into pieces depending on your recipe needs.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these simple tools and ingredients:
– Fresh beetroot (choose firm, smooth-skinned beets of similar size for even cooking)
– Microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap
– Water
– Knife and cutting board
– Vegetable brush or clean cloth
– Fork for testing doneness
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Beetroot in the Microwave
1. Prepare the Beetroot
Start by rinsing your beets under cold water to remove dirt. Use a vegetable brush if needed to scrub the skin gently. Then trim off the leafy tops and the root ends, leaving about an inch of stem intact to prevent color bleeding during cooking.
If you prefer, you can peel the beetroot before or after cooking, but many find it easier to peel after microwaving when the skin slips off easily.
2. Cut or Leave Whole
Decide whether to cook the beets whole or cut them into evenly sized pieces. Smaller pieces cook faster, so if you’re short on time, slicing into cubes or rounds is a good idea. Whole beets take longer but retain more moisture.
3. Place in Microwave-Safe Dish
Arrange the beetroot in a single layer in your microwave-safe dish. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
4. Add Water and Cover
Pour a small amount of water into the dish – enough to cover the bottom (about 2 to 4 tablespoons). This water creates steam, which helps cook the beets evenly and prevents drying out. Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.
5. Microwave on High
Cook the beets on high power for about 6 to 15 minutes, depending on size and whether they are whole or cut. For medium-sized whole beets, 10 to 15 minutes is typical. If cut into pieces, start checking at around 6 to 8 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness
Carefully remove the dish (it will be hot!) and pierce the beetroot with a fork. The beets are done when the fork slides in easily without resistance but the beet still holds its shape. If not tender enough, microwave in 1-2 minute increments until done.
7. Let Them Rest
Allow the beets to sit covered for 5 to 10 minutes after microwaving. This resting time lets residual heat finish cooking the beets and makes peeling easier.
8. Peel and Serve
Once cool enough to handle, peel the skin off the beets. You can rub it off with your hands, a paper towel, or a vegetable peeler. Be mindful that beet juice can stain, so gloves or an apron are helpful.
Serve your microwave-cooked beetroot as a side dish, add to salads, blend into dips, or enjoy as a healthy snack.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Beetroot Every Time
– Choose similar-sized beets: This ensures even cooking.
– Don’t skip the water: A little water is essential to create steam.
– Cover loosely: Prevents moisture loss but allows steam to escape safely.
– Test early: Start checking doneness before the timer ends to avoid overcooking.
– Use residual heat: Letting beets rest after microwaving improves texture.
– Wear gloves: Beetroot juice stains skin and clothes easily.
Quick Variations and Ideas
– Microwave whole beets: Great for roasting flavor without the oven.
– Cut into cubes: Perfect for quick salads or roasting alternatives.
– Add seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, or herbs after cooking.
– Use beet greens: Don’t throw away the tops! Steam or sauté them like spinach.
Microwaving beetroot is a game-changer for anyone who loves this colorful vegetable but hates the long cooking times. With just a few simple steps, you can have tender, flavorful beets ready in under 20 minutes. Give it a try and enjoy the sweet, earthy goodness of beetroot any day of the week!