Effortless Instant Pot Beets: Perfectly Cooked Every Time!
Beets, with their earthy sweetness and vibrant color, are a nutritional powerhouse. However, the traditional methods of cooking beets – boiling or roasting – can be time-consuming and messy. Enter the Instant Pot, your new best friend for perfectly cooked beets in a fraction of the time! This recipe guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make delicious, tender beets using your Instant Pot, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Why Cook Beets in the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot offers several advantages over traditional cooking methods:
* **Speed:** Cooking beets in the Instant Pot is significantly faster than roasting or boiling. You can have perfectly cooked beets in under an hour, including the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure.
* **Ease:** It’s incredibly hands-off. Simply add the beets and water to the Instant Pot, set the timer, and let it do its magic. No need to constantly monitor the pot.
* **Consistent Results:** The Instant Pot ensures even cooking, resulting in consistently tender beets every time.
* **Less Mess:** No more watching a pot boil over or worrying about splattering oil from roasting. The Instant Pot keeps everything contained.
* **Nutrient Retention:** Some studies suggest that pressure cooking may help retain more nutrients compared to boiling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Beets:** Choose beets that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. You can use any color of beets – red, golden, or Chioggia (striped). The cooking time will be the same for all varieties of similar size.
* **Water:** You’ll need water to create steam in the Instant Pot. The amount will depend on the size of your pot.
That’s it! You probably already have everything you need.
Equipment
* **Instant Pot:** A 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot will work perfectly for this recipe.
* **Steamer Basket (Optional):** A steamer basket can make it easier to lift the beets out of the Instant Pot after cooking, but it’s not essential.
* **Tongs or Slotted Spoon:** For removing the cooked beets from the pot.
* **Knife or Vegetable Peeler:** For trimming and peeling the beets (after cooking).
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping the beets.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Beets in the Instant Pot
Here’s how to cook beets in your Instant Pot for perfectly tender results:
**1. Prepare the Beets:**
* **Wash the beets:** Thoroughly wash the beets to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush to scrub them clean.
* **Trim the tops and root:** Cut off the beet greens, leaving about 1-2 inches of the stems attached. Also, trim the root end, leaving about ½ inch. (Don’t throw away the beet greens! They’re edible and delicious. Sauté them like you would spinach or kale.)
* **Leave the skin on:** There’s no need to peel the beets before cooking. The skin will slip off easily after they’re cooked.
**2. Add to the Instant Pot:**
* **Place beets in the Instant Pot:** Arrange the beets in a single layer in the bottom of the Instant Pot. If you’re using a steamer basket, place it in the pot first, then add the beets.
* **Add water:** Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. This is the minimum amount needed for the pot to come to pressure.
**3. Cook the Beets:**
* **Seal the Instant Pot:** Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Turn the steam release valve to the sealing position.
* **Set the cooking time:** Cooking time depends on the size of the beets. Use the following guidelines:
* **Small Beets (1-2 inches in diameter):** 12-15 minutes
* **Medium Beets (2-3 inches in diameter):** 20-25 minutes
* **Large Beets (3+ inches in diameter):** 25-30 minutes
* **Pressure Cook:** Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on your Instant Pot and set the timer for the appropriate cooking time. High pressure.
**4. Release the Pressure:**
* **Natural Pressure Release (NPR):** After the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes. This allows the beets to continue cooking gently and prevents them from becoming tough. The NPR time will vary depending on the volume of content in the pot.
* **Quick Pressure Release (QPR):** After the natural pressure release, carefully turn the steam release valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the steam, as it will be very hot.
**5. Cool and Peel:**
* **Test for Doneness:** Before peeling, insert a fork or knife into the largest beet. If it goes in easily with little resistance, the beets are done. If not, seal the lid and pressure cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, followed by another NPR.
* **Cool the beets:** Once the pressure is fully released, carefully remove the beets from the Instant Pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them in a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking process and makes them easier to handle.
* **Peel the beets:** After a few minutes in the ice bath, the beet skins should slip off easily. You can use your fingers, a small knife, or a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Discard the skins.
**6. Enjoy!**
* Now your perfectly cooked beets are ready to be enjoyed! You can slice, dice, or quarter them and use them in a variety of dishes.
Tips for Success
* **Choose beets of similar size:** This will ensure that they cook evenly.
* **Don’t overcrowd the Instant Pot:** Arrange the beets in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. If you have a lot of beets, you may need to cook them in batches.
* **Adjust cooking time based on size:** The cooking times provided are guidelines. Adjust the time based on the size of your beets. It’s always better to err on the side of undercooking, as you can always cook them for a few more minutes if needed.
* **Use the ice bath:** The ice bath is crucial for stopping the cooking process and making the beets easier to peel.
* **Wear gloves (optional):** Beet juice can stain your hands. If you’re concerned about staining, wear gloves while peeling the beets.
* **Don’t overcook:** Overcooked beets can become mushy. The goal is to cook them until they are tender but still slightly firm.
* **Save the beet cooking liquid:** The liquid left in the Instant Pot after cooking the beets is packed with nutrients and flavor. You can use it as a base for soups, sauces, or even as a natural food coloring.
Variations and Add-Ins
* **Add herbs:** Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the Instant Pot for added flavor.
* **Add vinegar:** A splash of balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar can enhance the natural sweetness of the beets.
* **Add citrus:** A slice of lemon or orange can add a bright, citrusy note to the beets.
* **Roast after cooking:** For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, toss the cooked and peeled beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot beets are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes:
* **Salads:** Add sliced or diced beets to salads for a pop of color and earthy sweetness. They pair well with goat cheese, feta cheese, walnuts, and vinaigrette dressings.
* **Roasted Vegetable Medleys:** Include beets in your favorite roasted vegetable medleys. They complement other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
* **Beet Hummus:** Blend cooked beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to make a vibrant and flavorful beet hummus.
* **Beet Soup (Borscht):** Use Instant Pot beets as the base for a traditional beet soup like borscht.
* **Beet and Goat Cheese Tart:** Combine cooked beets with goat cheese and puff pastry for a delicious and elegant tart.
* **Beet Risotto:** Add diced beets to risotto for a beautiful pink hue and earthy flavor.
* **Beet Smoothies:** Believe it or not, beets can be a delicious addition to smoothies! They add sweetness, nutrients, and a vibrant color.
* **Pickled Beets:** Pickle your Instant Pot beets for a tangy and flavorful condiment.
* **Simply Enjoy as a Side Dish:** Toss cooked beets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs for a simple and satisfying side dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Beets
Beets are packed with nutrients and offer a variety of health benefits:
* **Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:** Beets are a good source of folate, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese.
* **High in Antioxidants:** Beets contain antioxidants called betalains, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
* **May Lower Blood Pressure:** Studies suggest that the nitrates in beets can help lower blood pressure.
* **May Improve Athletic Performance:** Nitrates in beets can also enhance athletic performance by improving oxygen use.
* **Good Source of Fiber:** Beets are a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion and promote satiety.
Storing Cooked Beets
Cooked beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store them in an airtight container.
Can You Freeze Cooked Beets?
Yes, you can freeze cooked beets. To freeze, slice or dice the beets and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen beets to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen beets can be stored for up to 8 months.
Troubleshooting
* **Beets are not cooking evenly:** Make sure the beets are of similar size and are arranged in a single layer in the Instant Pot.
* **Beets are still hard after cooking:** Add a few more minutes to the cooking time and try again.
* **Beets are mushy:** Reduce the cooking time next time.
* **Instant Pot is not coming to pressure:** Make sure the sealing ring is properly in place and the steam release valve is in the sealing position.
Conclusion
Cooking beets in the Instant Pot is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and results in perfectly cooked beets every time. So, ditch the traditional methods and embrace the convenience of the Instant Pot. With this recipe and guide, you’ll be enjoying delicious and nutritious beets in no time! Experiment with different flavors and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.