Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt
Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt Recipe from Arabia
Introduction
Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt is a refreshing and healthy dish that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tangy creaminess of thick yogurt. This dish is perfect for a light and nutritious meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite main course.
History
This recipe is inspired by traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, where yogurt and beets are commonly used in a variety of dishes. The combination of beets and yogurt creates a unique flavor profile that is both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- 1. Drain the yogurt until you have 1.5 cups. Cut off all but 1 inch of the beet stalks and leave the roots intact. Rinse the beets well but do not peel. Cook the beets in boiling salted water until they are tender, which should take around 25 to 35 minutes. Drain the beets, remove the skins under cold running water, and trim the root ends and stalks. Coarsely grate the beets using either the shredding disk of a food processor or the large holes of a hand grater.
- 2. In a medium bowl, combine the garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the grated beets and yogurt, and mix well. Taste and add a pinch of sugar if desired. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate until it is well chilled, approximately 1 hour. Just before serving, garnish with sprigs of fresh mint.
Variations
- Add chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to drain the yogurt well to achieve a thick consistency.
- Cooking the beets until they are tender is key to achieving the right texture for this dish.
- Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance out the flavors of the dish.
- Garnishing with fresh mint adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the beets until tender
- Grating the beets
- Mixing the yogurt with lemon juice and seasonings
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can be used instead of plain low-fat yogurt.
- Lime juice can be used in place of lemon juice.
- Honey can be used instead of sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to garnish with fresh mint right before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also goes well with pita bread or naan.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave or enjoy cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 120 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 18g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 2g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 6g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and is not suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying option for a light meal or side dish.
Summary
Shredded Beets with Thick Yogurt is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its combination of earthy beets, tangy yogurt, and fresh mint, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a sunny summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margot for a cup of tea. As we chatted and sipped our tea, she brought out a plate of shredded beets with thick yogurt. I had never tasted anything like it before. The combination of the sweet, earthy beets with the tangy, creamy yogurt was simply divine.
I asked Margot for the recipe, and she smiled and told me that it was a traditional dish from her homeland in Greece. She explained how the beets were shredded and marinated in a simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs before being served with a generous dollop of thick yogurt. I was captivated by the flavors and textures of the dish, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
Over the years, I have perfected the recipe, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. The key, I have found, is to use the freshest, most vibrant beets you can find. I like to buy mine from the local farmer's market, where I can select beets of different colors and sizes for a beautiful presentation.
To prepare the dish, I start by washing and peeling the beets. I then use a box grater to shred them into thin strips. The beets are then tossed in a dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and a touch of honey for sweetness. I let the beets marinate in the dressing for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the beets to soften slightly.
When it's time to serve the dish, I spoon a generous portion of thick Greek yogurt onto a plate and top it with a mound of the marinated beets. I like to garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
I have shared this recipe with friends and family over the years, and it has become a staple at our dinner table. The flavors of the beets and yogurt complement each other perfectly, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant. It is a recipe that never fails to impress, and I am always happy to share it with others.
As I sit here, reminiscing about the day I first tasted shredded beets with thick yogurt, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me, and I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes and traditions with me over the years.
So, the next time you find yourself with a bunch of fresh beets and a craving for something delicious, why not give this recipe a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be the one sharing this recipe with a friend who will treasure it as much as I do.
Categories
| Arabian Recipes | Arabian Snacks | Beet Recipes | Clove Recipes | Mint Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |