The Strategy
Beets are a little bit messy to get to know, but their deep, earthy sweetness is more than worth a bit of stained fingers. Letting them roast cozy in a foil pouch coaxes out their natural sugars and makes the skins slide off easily with a simple rub of a paper towel. Slicing them paper-thin makes a gorgeous summer plate, especially when tucked alongside sweet, cool fruit.
Technique Summary
Roasting beets in their own steam softens their dense texture and intensifies their deep, sweet flavor. Slicing them thin creates a beautiful presentation for any summer gathering.
Chef’s Checkpoints
- Feel the beets yield softly when poked with a fork, indicating they are cooked through to the center.
- Watch the skins slide off smoothly with a gentle rub of a paper towel, leaving the bare, deep-crimson root.