Beetroot sauce

Beetroot sauce – a vibrant and healthy delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Beetroot, with its bright color and sweet taste, is a versatile ingredient that can transform any dish. This beetroot sauce is not only a healthy choice but also an extravagant option to add a touch of elegance to your meal. Whether served alongside meat, fish, or even grilled vegetables, this sauce will surely impress with its vibrant appearance and refined taste.

A brief history of beetroot sauce

Beetroot has been cultivated for thousands of years, appreciated not only for its nutritional properties but also for its intense color. Used in various culinary preparations, beetroot has evolved over time, and beetroot-based sauces have become popular worldwide. This sauce combines tradition with innovation, bringing a splash of color and health to every plate.

Ingredients

- 500 g beetroot
- 150 ml sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons mustard (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for shine)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the beetroot: Start by washing the beetroot thoroughly under cold running water. This is essential to remove impurities, especially if you bought the beetroot from a market. Once clean, peel the beetroot with a sharp knife or a peeler.

2. Boiling or steaming: You can choose to boil the beetroot in a pot of cold water with a teaspoon of salt or steam it. If you choose to boil, ensure the water completely covers the beetroot. Boil the beetroot for about 30 minutes or until tender. Check if it is done by inserting a fork into it; if it goes in easily, the beetroot is ready.

3. Cooling and mashing: Once the beetroot is boiled, drain it and let it cool. After it has cooled sufficiently, cut the beetroot into small cubes to facilitate mashing. Use a blender or food processor to mash the beetroot until you achieve a smooth paste.

4. Mixing the sauce: In a bowl, add the beetroot paste, sour cream, and mustard. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined. Here you can adjust the amount of mustard according to your preferences – if you like a stronger taste, add an extra tablespoon. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finalizing the sauce: Start incorporating the olive oil gradually while stirring continuously. This will not only give a nice shine to the sauce but will also enhance its flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Serving and suggestions

This beetroot sauce can be served immediately, but it is ideal to let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It pairs wonderfully with meat dishes, such as pork roast or grilled chicken. It also goes perfectly with baked fish or roasted vegetables. An interesting idea is to use it as a salad dressing, adding a touch of freshness and color.

Useful tips

- Choosing the beetroot: Opt for medium-sized, firm beetroot with a vibrant color. This will ensure a delicious sauce.
- Vegan option: You can replace the sour cream with vegan yogurt or nut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Olive oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor.
- Balanced flavors: Play with flavors by adding a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for a pleasant contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this beetroot sauce has approximately 120 calories. Beetroot is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Consuming beetroot can contribute to improved cardiovascular health and increased physical performance due to its nitrate content.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned beetroot?: While possible, fresh beetroot has a much more pleasant texture and taste.
- How can I store the sauce?: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- What other dishes can I combine beetroot sauce with?: Besides meat and fish, this sauce pairs wonderfully with cheeses, croutons, or as a dip for vegetables.

This beetroot sauce is not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to explore a nutritionally rich ingredient. Enjoy your meal and have fun in the kitchen!