Harvard Beets
Harvard Beets are a delightful side dish featuring tender beets coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This colorful dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats and is a perfect addition to any holiday spread or family dinner, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter or margarine and stir in flour.
- Gradually add boiling water and cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Add vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and ground cloves.
- Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Add beets and cook until thoroughly heated.
- If using canned beets, substitute 1/4 cup liquid from the can for the boiling water.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the brown sugar to taste. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a fruitier note. If fresh beets are available, roast them for a more intense flavor. This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs.
Serving Suggestions
Harvard Beets are a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled vegetables. They complement dishes like Fried Chicken or Beef Stroganoff well. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. They also make a colorful addition to any holiday table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beets in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for a quick reheating option, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvard Beets contains roughly 121 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh beets instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh beets, peel and cube them before boiling until tender. You can then proceed with the recipe as directed, adding them to the sauce for a fresher flavor. Roasting the fresh beets beforehand will enhance their sweetness and add a delicious caramelized flavor.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, maple syrup or honey can also work, but adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly since they may add extra moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the beets, then store the sauce in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and add the cooked or canned beets to warm through.
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).