Roasted beet salad with horseradish

Roasted Beet Salad with Horseradish - A Fall-Winter Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Introduction

Red beet, known for its vibrant color and nutritional benefits, is a versatile and healthy ingredient. This roasted beet salad with horseradish is a perfect choice for the cold season, packed with vitamins and refreshing flavors. The horseradish adds a spicy note, while the combination of the natural sweetness of the beet and the acidity of the vinegar creates an explosion of tastes. Moreover, it is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for those who want to bring a splash of color and nutrients to their table in the cold season.

History of Beets and Horseradish

Beets have deep historical roots, having been used since ancient times as a source of food and medicine. Horseradish, on the other hand, is appreciated not only for its spicy flavor but also for its beneficial properties on digestion. This salad is a perfect combination of healthy ingredients that not only nourish the body but also delight the taste buds.

Ingredients

- Red beet: 3 kg
- Horseradish: 2 pieces (approximately 100 g)
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Vinegar: 100 ml (preferably wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- Water: 300 ml

Step by Step: Preparing the Roasted Beet Salad

1. Prepare the beet: Wash the beet well under cold running water to remove any impurities. It is important to keep the skin, as it helps preserve the juice and flavors during baking.

2. Roast the beet: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the beet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Roast the beet for about 1 hour or until you can easily pierce it with a toothpick. Be careful not to overcook it, as it may become mushy.

3. Cool and peel the beet: Once the beet is roasted, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. You can use gloves to peel the beet, as the juice can stain your skin. Peel the skin off with a knife or your fingers, then grate the beet on a fine grater.

4. Prepare the horseradish: Peel the horseradish and use the same fine grater to grate it. Be careful, as horseradish can be very spicy, so it's best to avoid direct contact with your eyes.

5. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated beet with the grated horseradish. In another container, mix the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt until all ingredients are completely dissolved. Pour this mixture over the beet and horseradish. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

6. Preserve the salad: Transfer the salad to sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Cover the jars and keep them in the refrigerator. The salad can be consumed immediately, but it will improve in flavor over time, tasting even better throughout the winter.

Useful Tips

- Choose fresh beets: Buy beets that are firm and have no spots or signs of damage. Fresh beets will have a sweeter taste and better texture.
- Horseradish: Fresh horseradish has a much more intense flavor than the jarred kind. If you don't like it too spicy, you can reduce the amount of horseradish added.
- Variations: You can also add other ingredients, such as grated apple (which adds sweetness) or nuts (for crunch) to diversify the textures and flavors.
- Serving: This salad pairs excellently with grilled meat, fish, or as a side dish for various meat dishes. It is also an ideal accompaniment for pies or sandwiches.
- Recommended drinks: A dry white wine or a berry cocktail will perfectly complement the taste of this salad.

Nutritional Benefits

Beets are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals such as iron and magnesium, contributing to heart health and the immune system. Horseradish offers digestive benefits, helping to stimulate appetite and detoxify the body. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can the salad be kept in the refrigerator?
The roasted beet salad with horseradish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 months if stored in sterilized jars.

- Can I use canned beets?
While it is possible to use canned beets, the taste and texture will not be as intense as that of freshly roasted beets.

- How can I make the salad less sour?
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar, adding more sugar to balance the acidity.

This roasted beet salad with horseradish is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of colors and flavors, perfect for winter meals or to be given as a culinary gift. Take the time to savor each bite and let the authentic tastes of nature carry you away!