Ruby Sauced Beets
Ruby Sauced Beets offer a vibrant, sweet-tangy flavor with a hint of orange, perfect for those who enjoy colorful, hearty vegetable dishes with a fruity twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a large saucepan.
- Stir in cranberry juice cocktail and cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly.
- Add drained beets and orange peel, heat through, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, allow the mixture to simmer longer after adding the cranberry juice cocktail. If cranberry juice is unavailable, you can substitute it with pomegranate juice for a similar flavor profile. To make this dish vegan, ensure the sugar used is bone-char free. Additionally, using fresh beets instead of canned will enhance the flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ruby Sauced Beets warm as a vibrant side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with Joyce Higdon'S Blueberry Salad for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a grain like quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the beets in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cranberry juice if needed to prevent sticking. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruby Sauced Beets contains roughly 182 calories, with 0g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% 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, fresh beets can be used instead of canned. Boil or roast them beforehand, then peel and cut them into cubes before adding to the sauce. Fresh beets will provide a more robust flavor and a firmer texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring the sugar is not processed with bone char. Additionally, the ingredients listed are all plant-based, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the amount of sugar incrementally until it reaches your desired taste. Alternatively, you can add a splash of maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet flavor profile.
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).