Did you know that the Romans used red beets as an aphrodisiac?. It's is even scientifically proven!. Beets have a high amount of boron, which increases the efficiency of sex hormones.
Or did you know that in England during the 19th century, Victorians used to dyed their hairs with beet juice?. Ah!, The things we do for fashion's sake!. Since the 16th century, beet juice has been used as a natural red dye. No more spending money on expensive dyes!.
Did you know that sugar beets is a common sweetener in Europe?. It can be bought in most supermarkets and is just as affordable as regular cane sugar. In fact, people use it as they would use regular cane sugar.
I am sure these are not the firsts thought that come to your mind when you think of beets!. My mother used to force me to eat my beets by telling me that it would stimulate my skin and give me reddish healthy looking cheeks!. I would devour beets for the sake of beauty!. Aw, Vanity!.
Beets are another one of those vegetables that not everyone is super excited about. Whether you love it or hate it. To those of you who enjoy them, I salute you!. And to those who don't, maybe some info about them would do the trick.
The beet (Beta vulgaris) is a root vegetable that grows as a round bulb with a leafy top poking out above the soil. The most common is a deep ruby red in color, but they come in a variety of vibrant colors. Beets are native to the Mediterranean region. The leaves have been eaten since before written history, but the beetroot was generally used medicinally. It did not become a popular food until French chefs recognized its potential in the 1800s. Today, they're inexpensive and most often used in soups and salads. The plant thrives in cold climates. Germany, France, Russia, and the U.K. are leaders in beet cultivation. The entire plant is edible and can be boiled, baked, steamed, or eaten raw. Beets are best described as having an earthy flavor with a surprising amount of sweetness for a root vegetable.
Beets are also a source of folic acid, vitamin C and potassium. They contain lots of vitamins and phytonutrients, including antioxidants. They boost energy, detox the body, improve cognitive and physical functioning, regulate the blood pressure, fight inflammation and leave your skin looking great. It also has a high amount of insoluble fiber necessary for the well functioning of our digestive system and elimination process, ahem, sends you to the bathroom more regularly.
Note: Raw beets do have a high amount of oxalic acid. It's often advised that people with a history of kidney stones limit their raw beet consumption to avoid complications.
What is the most creative way you have ever eaten beets?, How do you like to eat them?.
I am attaching a picture of my plate of Middle Eastern eggplant drizzled with olive oil and garnished with fresh cilantro and my homemade super organic roasted beets purée. It was delicious!.
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