This classic “Beets” recipe captures the timeless flavor of sweet-and-sour beets, a beloved side dish in traditional American and Eastern European cooking. The tang of lemon and vinegar enhances the natural earthiness of the beets, while sugar and warm spices like cloves add a comforting balance. Caraway seeds lend a subtle herbal note that complements roasted meats or hearty meals. The use of canned beets makes it a quick, approachable recipe, perfect for both everyday dinners and holiday spreads. Its nostalgic simplicity and balanced flavor profile have made it a staple in family kitchens for decades.
Ingredients
- 16 oz beets (1 can)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 lemon (grated peel and juice of)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp caraway seed
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Liquid
- Drain liquid from canned beets into a saucepan and reserve the beets separately.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Add sugar, lemon juice, grated peel, salt, caraway seed, and ground cloves to the beet liquid.
Step 3: Heat and Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water. Gradually stir this mixture into the hot liquid, cooking over medium heat until thickened.
Step 5: Add Beets
- Stir in the reserved beets and lemon peel. Heat thoroughly before serving.
Tips
- Use whole canned beets sliced thick or thin depending on preferred texture.
- Replace canned beets with cooked fresh beets for a stronger beet flavor.
- Add a touch more sugar or lemon juice to adjust sweet-tart balance to taste.
- Omit caraway if sensitive to the flavor; substitute a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer profile.
- Chill after cooking to serve as a cold marinated beet salad.
- Add thinly sliced onions during the simmer for extra savory depth.
- Use the dish as a topping for borscht-style soups or grain bowls.
- Serve warm alongside roasts, sausages, or potatoes.
- If sauce becomes too thick, thin with a little water or beet liquid.
- For brighter lemon notes, add fresh zest at the end of cooking.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1.5gFat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg
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