Beets In Citrus Sauce
Bright and tangy beets in citrus sauce showcase natural sweetness with citrus and spices, perfect for those who enjoy vibrant flavors and colorful presentations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the beets whole until tender.
- Drain the beets, reserving the liquid, then peel and slice thin.
- Pour the beet liquid into a pot.
- Add grated orange peel, lemon juice, sugar, salt, ground cloves, and orange juice concentrate to the liquid.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water to make a smooth paste.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the liquid and beat with a whisk.
- Cook until the mixture becomes clear.
- Add the sliced beets and butter, then heat through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
When cooking beets, try using a pressure cooker for faster results. If you don't have fresh orange peel, a dash of orange zest can work as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside the ground cloves. This recipe can be made vegetarian by using plant-based butter substitutes. Serve alongside Peasant Cheese Bread for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beets in citrus sauce warm as a side dish to roasted meats or grilled fish. They also make a vibrant addition to salads, especially when paired with greens and goat cheese. For a complete meal, serve with a slice of crusty bread or alongside Vegetarian recipes that feature grains like quinoa or farro.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the beets mushy. If desired, add a splash of water or fresh orange juice to restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beets In Citrus Sauce contains roughly 119 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beets for this recipe?
While fresh beets provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned beets in a pinch. Rinse and drain them, and skip the cooking step. Adjust the sauce ingredients slightly to account for the canned beets' moisture.
How can I make this dish sweeter?
To enhance the sweetness, consider increasing the sugar by one tablespoon or adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with adding more orange juice concentrate for a fruitier flavor.
What can I serve with beets in citrus sauce?
This dish pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty grain salad. For a unique twist, try it with Mushroom Croustade for a delightful flavor combination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).