Beets with Orange and Almonds

Beets with Orange and Almonds Recipe - Delicious and Easy-to-Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beets with Orange and Almonds is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the citrusy tang of oranges and the crunchy texture of almonds. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious addition to any meal. Perfect for those who appreciate the natural sweetness of beets and are looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables into their diet in a delicious and appealing way.

History

The combination of beets and oranges has been a classic in many cuisines for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. The use of almonds adds a modern twist and extra texture to the dish. This recipe, with its roots in traditional cooking methods, has evolved over time to become a beloved side dish that complements a wide range of main courses.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) beets
juice of 3 oranges
zest of 1 orange
0.25 cup unsalted butter
salt
freshly ground pepper
0.33 cup toasted slivered almonds
0.5 orange, for garnish
2 tbsp coarsely chopped chervil or 1 to 2 tsp chopped fresh tarragon, for garnish

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Trim the leaves off the beets, leaving about an inch of stem.
Place the beets in a roasting pan.
Bake the beets until the skins are crinkled and loose and a sweet beet smell permeates the kitchen. Medium-sized beets should take about 1.5 to 2 hours, while small ones will take about 1.5 hours.
Peel the beets and cut them into 0.38 inch cubes.
In a shallow saucepan or skillet, combine the orange juice, orange zest, beets, and butter.
Cook the mixture over low to medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, raise the heat to high to reduce the cooking liquid for about 2 minutes.
The beets should be coated with an orange glaze.
Taste the dish and add salt if necessary. Also, add plenty of freshly ground pepper.
Transfer the cooked beets to a warm serving dish and top them with the almonds.
Squeeze the juice from the half orange over the cooked beets and garnish with the chervil.
Serve the dish immediately.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, instead of almonds. Adding crumbled feta or goat cheese can provide an extra layer of flavor for those who enjoy dairy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, choose medium-sized beets that are firm and have smooth skins. Smaller beets are sweeter and more tender. When roasting the beets, wrapping them in foil can help retain their juices, resulting in a more flavorful dish. To prevent the beets from staining your hands, you can wear gloves during peeling and cutting.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with quinoa or brown rice for a hearty vegetarian option.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the beets intensifies their natural sweetness, while sautéing them with orange juice and zest adds a delightful citrus flavor. The final touch of toasted almonds provides a contrasting texture that elevates the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If oranges are not available, you can use mandarins or grapefruits for a similar citrusy flavor. For those who do not consume butter, coconut oil is a suitable substitute that adds a slight sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

The beets can be roasted and peeled a day in advance to save time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. The final dish is best served fresh but can be reheated gently if necessary.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the beets on a platter and sprinkle the almonds and tarragon on top for a burst of color. A drizzle of reduced balsamic vinegar can add a beautiful glaze and an extra layer of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the citrus notes of the orange.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to preserve the texture of the beets and almonds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Beets with Orange and Almonds contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the beets being the primary source. One serving of this recipe contains approximately 13 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

The unsalted butter and almonds contribute to the fat content of this dish. However, the total fat content is kept moderate, with one serving containing about 9 grams of fat. The majority of the fat comes from the almonds, which provide healthy monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Beets with Orange and Almonds is not a high-protein dish, with one serving containing about 3 grams of protein. The protein in this dish primarily comes from the almonds.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the beets and oranges. Beets are a good source of folate, manganese, and potassium, while oranges provide a significant amount of vitamin C. Almonds add vitamin E and magnesium to the mix, making this dish a nutritional powerhouse.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is almonds, which are tree nuts. Those with a tree nut allergy should omit the almonds or substitute them with a non-allergenic ingredient.

Summary

Overall, Beets with Orange and Almonds is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Beets with Orange and Almonds is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tangy flavor of oranges and the crunch of almonds. It is versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and flavors.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Beets with Orange and Almonds. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl with a passion for cooking. I had always loved experimenting in the kitchen, trying out new flavors and techniques to create delicious dishes for my family.

One day, while browsing through an old cookbook that had belonged to my grandmother, I came across a recipe that caught my eye. It was a simple yet elegant dish that combined the earthy sweetness of beets with the bright citrusy flavor of oranges and the crunchy nuttiness of almonds. I knew I had to try it.

I gathered the ingredients and set to work, carefully peeling and slicing the beets, zesting and juicing the oranges, and toasting the almonds to perfection. As the dish cooked, the aromas wafted through the kitchen, filling the air with a tantalizing scent that made my mouth water.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The sweetness of the beets paired perfectly with the tangy citrus of the oranges and the richness of the almonds. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I proudly served the dish to my family that evening, and they were equally impressed by the unique combination of flavors. They begged me to make it again, and so I did, refining the recipe with each iteration until it became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Some have even asked me to teach them how to make it, and I have happily obliged, passing on the recipe to a new generation of cooks.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this wonderful dish, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn from others and to explore new culinary horizons. Cooking has always been a source of joy and inspiration for me, and this recipe for Beets with Orange and Almonds is just one example of the magic that can happen when you combine passion, creativity, and a willingness to try new things.

So next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Who knows what delicious discoveries you might make along the way? Just like me, you may stumble upon a hidden gem that will become a beloved favorite for years to come.