Beets are a powerhouse ingredient for juicing, packed with nutrients and a natural sweetness that elevates any juice recipe. But to enjoy their full potential, it’s essential to store them properly. Whether you’re juicing daily or prepping for the week ahead, knowing how to store beets ensures they stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to use. Let’s dive into the best methods to store beets for juicing so you can keep your juices vibrant and nutritious.
Why Proper Beet Storage Matters
Beets are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, improper storage can cause them to lose their firmness, flavor, and nutritional value. Fresh beets not only taste better but also juice more efficiently, providing a smoother and richer drink.
Step 1: Start with Fresh Beets
The first step in storing beets is selecting the freshest ones. Look for:
– Firm roots with smooth skin (no soft spots or blemishes).
– Bright green leaves if still attached (a sign of freshness).
Avoid overly large beets as they can be woody and less juicy. Smaller to medium-sized ones are ideal for juicing.
How to Store Beets for Maximum Freshness
1. Refrigerate Whole Beets
For short-term storage (up to 2–3 weeks), the refrigerator is your best friend:
– Trim the greens: Cut off the beet greens about 2 inches from the root. The greens draw moisture from the beetroot, causing it to shrivel faster.
– Don’t wash yet: Keep the beets unwashed until you’re ready to use them. Excess moisture can lead to mold or spoilage.
– Use a breathable bag: Place the unwashed beets in a perforated plastic bag or wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel. Store in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer.
This method keeps your beets firm and juicy for up to three weeks.
2. Freezing Beets for Long-Term Storage
If you want to stock up on beets for future juicing sessions, freezing is an excellent option:
- Prepare the beets: Trim the greens and wash the roots thoroughly under running water.
- Cook lightly: Boil or steam the beets until tender (about 30–50 minutes depending on size). This step locks in their flavor and color while making peeling easier.
- Peel and slice: Once cooled, peel off the skins (they should slide off easily) and cut the beets into chunks or slices.
- Freeze properly: Place the pieces in an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date for reference.
Frozen beets can last up to 10–12 months while retaining their flavor and nutrients.
3. Pickling Beets for Juicing Variety
Pickling isn’t just for preservation—it adds a tangy twist to your juices! To pickle:
– Boil and peel your beets as you would for freezing.
– Slice them into thin rounds or cubes and place them in sterilized jars.
– Add a brine made of vinegar, water, sugar, and spices like garlic or rosemary. Seal tightly and store in a cool pantry for up to 18 months.
Pickled beets are perfect for creating unique juice blends with a zesty kick!
4. Storing Beet Greens Separately
If your fresh beets come with greens attached, don’t toss them! Beet greens are packed with nutrients and can also be juiced or added to smoothies. To store them:
– Wash thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt or debris.
– Pat dry with a clean towel and wrap loosely in a damp paper towel.
– Store in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use beet greens quickly as they wilt faster than the roots.
Tips for Juicing Stored Beets
– Check freshness: Before juicing, ensure your stored beets are still firm and free of mold or soft spots.
– Juice immediately after thawing: If using frozen beets, let them thaw slightly at room temperature before juicing.
– Combine flavors: Pair stored beets with fresh fruits like apples, oranges, or ginger to enhance their natural sweetness.
Storing beets properly is key to maintaining their quality and making every glass of beet juice as delicious as possible. With these simple techniques, you’ll always have fresh or preserved beets ready for your next juicing adventure!