Beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from pickling and roasting to boiling and steaming. However, one of the most common questions that gardeners and cooks have about beets is whether or not they should be refrigerated after picking. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to store beets, the benefits of refrigeration, and some tips for keeping your beets fresh for as long as possible.
Why Store Beets Properly?
Beets are a cool-season crop, which means that they thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. However, this also means that they are more susceptible to spoilage and decay when they are exposed to heat, light, and moisture. When beets are not stored properly, they can become soft, moldy, and develop off-flavors. This can be a real disappointment, especially if you’ve spent time and effort growing or purchasing them.
The Importance of Cooling Beets Quickly
One of the most important things you can do to keep your beets fresh is to cool them quickly after picking. Beets that are left in the sun or at room temperature for too long can become damaged and develop off-flavors. To cool your beets quickly, you can try the following:
- Immerse them in cold water or an ice bath
- Place them in a cool, dry place, such as a basement or root cellar
- Use a fan or other ventilation system to circulate air and speed up cooling
Should You Refrigerate Beets After Picking?
So, should you refrigerate beets after picking? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. Refrigeration can help to slow down the spoilage process and keep your beets fresh for longer. However, it’s not the only factor to consider.
- Refrigeration can help to preserve the color and texture of beets. Beets that are refrigerated tend to retain their bright red or gold color and firm texture, while those that are not refrigerated can become dull and soft.
- Refrigeration can help to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Beets that are refrigerated are less likely to develop mold and bacterial growth, which can cause them to spoil more quickly.
- Refrigeration can help to slow down the conversion of sugars to starch. Beets that are refrigerated tend to retain their natural sweetness, while those that are not refrigerated can become starchy and bland.
However, refrigeration is not a guarantee of freshness, and there are some potential drawbacks to consider.
- Refrigeration can cause beets to become watery. Beets that are refrigerated for too long can become watery and develop off-flavors.
- Refrigeration can cause beets to lose their flavor. Beets that are refrigerated for too long can lose their natural sweetness and flavor.
How to Refrigerate Beets Properly
If you do decide to refrigerate your beets, here are some tips for doing it properly:
- Store beets in a breathable container. Beets that are stored in airtight containers can become soggy and develop off-flavors. Instead, store them in a breathable container, such as a paper bag or a mesh bag.
- Keep beets away from strong-smelling foods. Beets can absorb odors from other foods, so it’s best to keep them away from strong-smelling foods like onions and fish.
- Don’t wash beets before refrigerating them. Beets that are washed before refrigerating can become soggy and develop off-flavors. Instead, gently brush off any dirt or debris and refrigerate them as is.
Alternative Storage Methods
While refrigeration can be an effective way to store beets, it’s not the only option. Here are some alternative storage methods to consider:
- Root cellar storage. Beets can be stored in a root cellar, which is a cool, dark place that is specifically designed for storing root vegetables. Root cellars are ideal for storing beets because they provide a consistent temperature and humidity level.
- Basement storage. Beets can also be stored in a basement, which is a cool, dark place that is similar to a root cellar. Basements are ideal for storing beets because they provide a consistent temperature and humidity level.
- Outdoor storage. Beets can be stored outdoors in a cool, dry place, such as a shed or a garage. However, this method is not recommended because it can expose the beets to heat, light, and moisture.
How to Store Beets in a Root Cellar or Basement
If you do decide to store your beets in a root cellar or basement, here are some tips for doing it properly:
- Store beets in a breathable container. Beets that are stored in airtight containers can become soggy and develop off-flavors. Instead, store them in a breathable container, such as a paper bag or a mesh bag.
- Keep beets away from strong-smelling foods. Beets can absorb odors from other foods, so it’s best to keep them away from strong-smelling foods like onions and fish.
- Monitor the temperature and humidity level. Beets that are stored in a root cellar or basement should be kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level. The ideal temperature for storing beets is between 32°F and 40°F, while the ideal humidity level is between 80% and 90%.
Conclusion
Beets are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. However, they can be finicky to store, and improper storage can cause them to spoil quickly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help to keep your beets fresh for as long as possible. Whether you choose to refrigerate your beets or store them in a root cellar or basement, the key is to keep them cool, dry, and away from strong-smelling foods.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Humidity Level | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 32°F – 40°F | 80% – 90% | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Root Cellar Storage | 32°F – 40°F | 80% – 90% | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Basement Storage | 32°F – 40°F | 80% – 90% | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Outdoor Storage | Varies | Varies | 1 – 2 weeks |
By following these guidelines, you can help to keep your beets fresh for as long as possible and enjoy them in a variety of delicious dishes.
How do I store beets after picking to keep them fresh?
To keep beets fresh after picking, it’s essential to store them properly. Start by gently brushing off any excess dirt from the beets, but avoid washing them. Excess moisture can cause the beets to rot. Next, trim the greens to about an inch above the crown of the beetroot. This will help prevent moisture from entering the beetroot through the greens.
Store the beets in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. A root cellar or a basement with a consistent temperature between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C) is ideal. You can store the beets in a container or bag, but make sure it’s not airtight. A paper bag or a breathable container like a mesh bag or a ventilated plastic bag is perfect.
Can I store beets in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store beets in the refrigerator, but it’s not the best option for long-term storage. Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store beets in the refrigerator, place them in a plastic bag or airtight container to maintain humidity. Keep the beets away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily.
Before storing beets in the refrigerator, make sure to trim the greens to about an inch above the crown of the beetroot. You can also store cooked beets in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cooked beets should be stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture from entering.
How do I store pickled beets?
Pickled beets can be stored in the refrigerator for several months. To store pickled beets, place them in a clean, sterilized jar with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the beets are completely covered with the pickling liquid. Store the jar in the refrigerator and keep it away from direct sunlight.
Pickled beets can also be stored in the freezer for up to a year. To freeze pickled beets, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Can I store beets in the freezer?
Yes, you can store beets in the freezer, but they need to be cooked or pickled first. Raw beets do not freeze well and can become watery when thawed. To freeze cooked beets, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing and label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen beets can be stored for up to a year. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw the beets in the refrigerator or reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Frozen beets are perfect for soups, stews, and roasted vegetable dishes.
How do I store beet greens?
Beet greens can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store beet greens, place them in a plastic bag or airtight container to maintain humidity. Keep the greens away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily. You can also store cooked beet greens in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Beet greens can also be frozen for up to a year. To freeze beet greens, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, place the greens in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing.
Can I store beets at room temperature?
No, it’s not recommended to store beets at room temperature for an extended period. Beets are a root vegetable and need to be stored in a cool, dark place to stay fresh. Room temperature can cause the beets to dry out and become woody. If you need to store beets at room temperature, make sure it’s for a short period, such as a day or two.
If you’re storing beets at room temperature, keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You can store them in a paper bag or a breathable container like a mesh bag. However, it’s still best to store beets in a cool, dark place like a root cellar or basement.
How long do stored beets last?
The shelf life of stored beets depends on the storage method and conditions. Beets stored in a cool, dark place like a root cellar or basement can last for several months. Beets stored in the refrigerator can last for up to a week, while pickled beets can last for several months. Frozen beets can last for up to a year.
Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of beets. Make sure to store beets in a way that maintains their natural moisture and prevents moisture from entering. Regularly check on stored beets for signs of spoilage, such as mold, sliminess, or a sour smell.