Wilma'S Harvard Beets
Wilma's Harvard Beets offer a sweet and tangy side featuring tender beets in a flavorful syrup, perfect for holiday dinners or as a vibrant vegetable complement.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the beets, reserving the liquid.
- Combine sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Stir in vinegar and beet juice or water.
- Cook over low heat until thickened.
- Add the beets and butter, then heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh beets instead of canned. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon. If you don't have beet juice, water is a fine substitute. To thicken the sauce more quickly, whisk the cornstarch with a little cold water before adding it to the pan. This recipe can also be adjusted to fit vegetarian recipes by ensuring your butter is plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Wilma's Harvard Beets warm as a colorful side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. They pair beautifully with Lemon Chicken-Grilled or can be served with a light salad for a vegetarian meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the beets from becoming mushy. You can also microwave small portions, but cover them to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wilma'S Harvard Beets contains roughly 168 calories, with 1g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 frozen beets instead of canned?
Yes, frozen beets can be used in this recipe. Simply thaw and drain them before proceeding with the instructions. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are heated through evenly.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make Wilma's Harvard Beets vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. This maintains the richness of the dish while accommodating a vegan diet.
What can I serve with Harvard Beets?
Harvard Beets complement a variety of dishes. They are great alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or pork, and can also be served with hearty vegetarian recipes like lentil stew or quinoa salad for a balanced meal.
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).