Harvard Beets
Transform your table with the vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor of Harvard Beets, a classic side dish that's both comforting and elegant. Tender, earthy beets are simmered to perfection, then coated in a glossy, velvety sauce made with sugar, white vinegar, fresh orange juice, and a touch of butter for richness. The thickened sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, enhancing the natural flavors of the beets. Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe comes together in under an hour and makes a stunning accompaniment to roasted meats or hearty vegetarian mains. Perfect for holidays and weeknight dinners alike, Harvard Beets are a timeless favorite that’s as delicious as they are eye-catching.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets
- 0.333 cup granulated sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.25 cup white vinegar
- 0.25 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.5 cup water
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Wash and trim the beets, leaving about an inch of the stems and the root intact to prevent bleeding while they cook.
2. Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the beets are fork-tender.
3. Remove the cooked beets from the pot and allow them to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins by rubbing them with your hands or a paper towel. Slice the peeled beets into 1/4-inch thick rounds or bite-sized wedges.
4. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until evenly combined. Gradually add the vinegar, orange juice, and water while whisking to avoid lumps.
5. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Add the butter and salt to the sauce, stirring until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
7. Add the sliced beets to the saucepan and gently toss to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the beets to heat through and absorb some of the sauce flavors.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the Harvard Beets to a serving dish. Serve warm as a side dish, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
695 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.8 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 1995 mg | 87% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 116.4 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.8 g | 35% | |
| Total Sugars | 94.8 g | ||
| Protein | 6.2 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 79 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 1272 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
