Beetroot

Cultivar

Crimson Globe, Detroit Dark Red

Major growing area

Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Kandy

ORIGINS

Although unclear as to their exact region of origin, beetroot remains have been excavated in the 3rd Dynasty Saqqara Pyramid in Egypt. Four charred beet fruits were also found in the Neolithic site of Aartswoud in the Netherlands.

TASTE

Sweet

AYURVEDA & MEDICINAL USES

Studies show that drinking beet juice can help lower blood pressure in a matter of hours. Beets are a unique source of betaine, a nutrient that helps protects cells, proteins, and enzymes from environmental stress. It is also known to help fight inflammation, protect internal organs, improve vascular risk factors, enhance performance, and likely help prevent numerous chronic diseases. The phytonutrients that give beets their deep crimson colour may help combat cancer. Beets also contain the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.

NOTABLE FACTS

A legend dating back thousands of years! An Assyrian text from 800 BCE mentions that beetroot plants were grown in the legendary Hanging Gardens of Babylon. They were offered to Apollo the Sun God and in the Temple of Delphi by the Greeks!

Besides their obvious use as food, beets have also been used as food colouring and medicinal plants.

TRY-ME RECIPES

Whip up a quick and healthy dish of beet greens by adding the latter to a pan and cooking till tender. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and stir. Cook until fragrant. Stir in the greens until oil is evenly distributed. Cook just until the greens are hot and serve with lemon wedges.

The Beef Lindstrom is another favourite dish among beef-lovers. Gently fry the beetroot for 5minutes. Add the vinegar and simmer until liquid evaporates. Set aside to cool. Mix the beef with chopped anchovies, capers, ketchup, mustard and seasoning. Add the cooked beetroot Form into patties and voila. Await applause!