Orange-glazed Beets

Orange-Glazed Beets Recipe - Sweet and Tangy Flavor with Orange Marmalade and Vinegar

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orange-glazed beets are a delicious and easy side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. The combination of sweet orange marmalade and tangy vinegar creates a unique glaze that perfectly complements the earthy taste of beets.

History

The recipe for orange-glazed beets is a modern twist on a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Beets have long been a staple in many cuisines around the world, prized for their sweet and earthy flavor. The addition of orange marmalade and vinegar adds a new dimension to this traditional dish, creating a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the humble beet to new heights.

Ingredients

1 can of small whole beets, drained (16 oz (454 g))
3 tbsp of orange marmalade
1 tbsp of vinegar

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Place the beets in an ungreased 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the marmalade and vinegar together, then drizzle the mixture over the beets.
Cover the casserole dish and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the beets are heated through.

Variations

For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Substitute honey or maple syrup for the orange marmalade for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, before serving for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the beets well before using them in this recipe to prevent excess liquid from diluting the glaze.

- For a more intense orange flavor, you can add a splash of orange juice to the glaze mixture.

- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can increase the amount of orange marmalade in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Orange-glazed beets are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty vegetarian stew for a colorful and flavorful meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the beets in the oven allows them to caramelize slightly and absorb the flavors of the glaze, resulting in a tender and flavorful side dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer fresh beets, you can roast them in the oven before adding the glaze. Simply peel and dice the beets, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (204°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the orange glaze in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the glaze before drizzling it over the beets and baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the orange-glazed beets with a sprinkle of orange zest and chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful and vibrant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Orange-glazed beets pair well with a variety of dishes, including roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a quinoa salad. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a green salad and crusty bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover orange-glazed beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the beets in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of orange-glazed beets contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of orange-glazed beets contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of orange-glazed beets contains negligible amounts of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of orange-glazed beets contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Beets are a good source of folate, potassium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

Orange-glazed beets are a nutritious side dish that is low in calories and fat, but high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Orange-glazed beets are a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze adds a burst of flavor to the earthy beets, creating a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Serve them alongside your favorite main course for a colorful and flavorful meal that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Orange-glazed Beets. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl, just beginning to explore the world of cooking. My mother had always been a wonderful cook, and I had learned many of my skills from her. But this recipe was different. It was unique, unexpected, and utterly delicious.

I first learned of the recipe from my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins. She was a sweet old lady who lived down the street from us, and she was known for her incredible cooking skills. One day, as I was passing by her house, I caught a whiff of something amazing coming from her kitchen. Curious, I knocked on her door and asked her what she was making.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled warmly and invited me in. She was in the midst of preparing a batch of Orange-glazed Beets, a recipe she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago. As she cooked, she shared the recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and offering tips and tricks to ensure the dish turned out just right.

I was mesmerized by the process of cooking the beets. Mrs. Jenkins peeled and sliced them with ease, her hands moving with practiced precision. She then simmered the beets in a mixture of orange juice, sugar, and butter, allowing them to soak up the flavors and develop a beautiful glaze. The smell that filled her kitchen was incredible – sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible.

As Mrs. Jenkins plated the Orange-glazed Beets and garnished them with fresh parsley, she handed me a fork and urged me to try a bite. I hesitated at first, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as I took that first bite, I was hooked. The beets were tender, sweet, and perfectly balanced with the citrusy glaze. It was a flavor combination unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Orange-glazed Beets myself. I visited Mrs. Jenkins regularly, watching and learning as she cooked. I took careful notes, asked questions, and practiced the recipe over and over again until I had it down to a science.

Over the years, I have made Orange-glazed Beets for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and holidays. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have passed on the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, ensuring that it will be enjoyed for generations to come.

What I love most about this recipe is not just the delicious flavors, but the memories it holds. Every time I make Orange-glazed Beets, I am transported back to that day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, learning something new and exciting. The recipe serves as a reminder of the joy of cooking, the importance of tradition, and the power of sharing food with others.

So here I am, many years later, still making Orange-glazed Beets with the same passion and love that I felt when I first discovered the recipe. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy and connection that food can bring. And as I serve it to my family and friends, I hope that they too will feel the same sense of wonder and delight that I did all those years ago.