Juanita Backus' Harvard Beets
Juanita Backus' Harvard Beets offer a sweet and tangy side dish with tender beets coated in a rich, flavorful sauce, perfect for family dinners or holiday tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, water, and vinegar in a saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Add butter and canned diced beets to the sauce.
- Cook slowly for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to increase the sugar slightly. Using fresh beets instead of canned can enhance the texture and flavor, but will require additional cooking time. For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sauce for warmth. This dish pairs well with American recipes like Sliced Squash Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Harvard beets as a vibrant side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a colorful plate. They also complement hearty dishes like meatloaf. For a complete meal, consider pairing with Easy Chocolate Cookies for dessert, creating a satisfying balance between sweet and savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave in short bursts, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Juanita Backus' Harvard Beets contains roughly 83 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1776mg per serving (77% 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 fresh beets instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beets for this recipe. You'll need to peel and cook them until tender, which may take longer than using canned beets. Boil or roast them until soft, then dice before adding to the sauce. This will give you a fresher taste and better texture.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you find the beets too sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe. Conversely, if you prefer them sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the sauce. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
What can I serve with Harvard beets?
Harvard beets pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. They are excellent alongside roasted meats, especially pork or beef. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a fresh salad or a hearty grain dish like quinoa. They also make a colorful addition to a holiday table.
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).