How Long To Boil Beets: A Comprehensive Guide

Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups to smoothies. Boiling is one of the most popular ways to cook beets, but the cooking time can vary depending on several factors.

In this article, we’ll explore how long to boil beets and provide a step-by-step guide to help you cook them perfectly every time.

How Long to Boil Beets?

As a general rule of thumb, small to medium-sized beets should be boiled for 25-35 minutes, while larger beets can take up to an hour. However, cooking time for boiled beets can vary depending factors including their size and freshness

Factors That Affect Boiling Time For Beets

The cooking time for beets can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the beets, their freshness, the altitude of your location, and the type of pot you use.

Size of the Beets

The size of the beets is one of the most important factors that affects how long they need to boil. Smaller beets will cook faster than larger beets, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to boil small beets for 25-30 minutes, medium beets for 45-50 minutes, and large beets for 60-70 minutes.

Freshness of the Beets

Freshness also plays a role in how long beets need to boil. Fresh beets will cook faster than older beets, so if you’re using beets that have been sitting in your fridge for a while, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Altitude of Your Location

Altitude can affect the boiling point of water, which can in turn affect the cooking time of your beets. If you’re cooking at a high altitude, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure that the beets are fully cooked.

Type of Pot Used

The type of pot you use can also affect the cooking time of your beets. A heavy-bottomed pot will heat more evenly and retain heat better, which can result in faster cooking times. If you’re using a thin or lightweight pot, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How to Prepare Beets for Boiling

Before you start boiling your beets, it’s important to prepare them properly to ensure that they cook evenly.

Wash the Beets Thoroughly

Start by washing your beets thoroughly under running water. Use a vegetable brush to scrub away any dirt or debris, and make sure to rinse them well.

Remove the Leaves and Stems

Next, use a sharp knife to trim off the leaves and stems of the beets. Be sure to leave about an inch of stem intact to prevent the beets from bleeding too much while they cook.

Trim the Root

Finally, trim the root end of the beets, leaving about a quarter inch of the root intact. This will help the beets cook evenly and prevent them from becoming too soft.

Boiling Beets: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that your beets are prepared, it’s time to start boiling them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the perfect boil every time.

Fill a Pot with Water

Start by filling a large pot with enough water to cover the beets by at least an inch. You can add more water if you’re boiling a large batch of beets.

Add Salt and Vinegar to the Water

Next, add a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of vinegar to the water. The salt will help to enhance the flavor of the beets, while the vinegar will help to preserve their color.

Bring the Water to a Boil

Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil over high heat.

Add the Beets

Once the water is boiling, carefully add the prepared beets to the pot. Make sure that they are fully submerged in the water.

Reduce the Heat

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beets simmer gently. Cover the pot with a lid to help retain heat and prevent evaporation.

Check the Beets for Doneness

Check the beets for doneness after the recommended cooking time for their size has elapsed. You can test for doneness by inserting a sharp knife or fork into the center of the beet. If it goes in easily, the beets are done.

Remove the Beets from the Pot

Once the beets are done, use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the pot. Place them on a cutting board or plate to cool.

Peel the Beets

After the beets have cooled, use a paring knife or vegetable peeler to remove the skin. The skin should come off easily, but you may need to use a bit of pressure in some areas.

Slice or Dice the Beets

Finally, slice or dice the beets as desired. They are now ready to use in your favorite recipes.

Conclusion

Boiling beets is a simple and easy way to cook this nutritious and delicious root vegetable. The cooking time can vary depending on several factors, but by following our step-by-step guide and adjusting the cooking time based on the size of your beets, you can ensure that they are perfectly cooked every time. With their bright color and sweet flavor, boiled beets are a versatile ingredient that can add a pop of color and nutrition to a variety of dishes. So why not give them a try in your next recipe?

FAQs

How do you know when boiled beets are done?

The easiest way to tell if boiled beets are done is by inserting a sharp knife or fork into the center of the beet. If it goes in easily, the beets are cooked to perfection. Alternatively, you can also use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beets. When fully cooked, beets will reach an internal temperature of around 190-200°F.

How long does it take to boil raw beetroot?

The cooking time for boiled beetroot depends on the size of the beet. Generally, small to medium-sized beets take around 25-35 minutes to cook, while larger beets can take up to an hour. To speed up the cooking process, you can cut the beets into smaller pieces or cubes.

Can you boil beets with the skin on?

Yes, you can boil beets with the skin on. In fact, this is a common method of cooking beets, as the skin helps to preserve their color and nutrients. However, you will need to scrub the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris before cooking. Once the beets are boiled, the skin can be easily peeled off using a paring knife or vegetable peeler.

Do you cut beets before boiling?

It’s not necessary to cut beets before boiling, but it can help to reduce the cooking time. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut the beets into smaller pieces or cubes to speed up the cooking process. However, this may cause the beets to lose some of their color and nutrients. If you’re looking to preserve the color and nutrients of the beets, it’s best to boil them whole.