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Beetroot is one of those vegetables that people either love or ignore. But if you do enjoy them, roasted, in salads, or even as juice, it’s worth learning how to store them properly. A little effort goes a long way in keeping them fresh and tasty. Sometimes you might buy a big bunch and not use all of it at once. Or maybe you’ve pulled some lovely beetroot out of your garden. In both cases, storing them right matters. Too much moisture can spoil them, while too little care can make them dry out or go soft. Beetroots are quite hardy, but they still need the right kind of attention. From popping them in the fridge to pickling or freezing, here are simple ways to make your beetroot last longer.
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Put It In The Crisper Drawer
The crisper drawer in your fridge is a good place to start. First, cut off most of the green stems, leaving about two inches. Don’t wash the beetroot before storing; moisture can make them rot faster. Just brush off any visible dirt. Place the unwashed beetroot in a breathable bag or leave them loose in the drawer. Stored like this, they can stay good for up to two months. If your beetroot still has greens, don’t toss them. Chop off the leaves and keep them in a container in the fridge. Use them within two or three days for the best taste.
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Freeze Your Beetroot
Freezing is a great option if you have more beetroot than you can eat soon. Start by trimming the tops and gently scrubbing off any dirt. Boil the whole beetroot with the lid on for about 30 minutes. Once they’re soft, place them in cold water to cool down. After that, peel the skin and cut it into slices or cubes. It’s best to do this on a chopping board lined with paper towels because beetroot juice can stain. Pack the pieces into freezer bags, remove the air, and seal well. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to a year.
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Store With Peat Moss
If you grow your own beetroot, storing them in a box with sand, sawdust, or peat moss is a smart idea. First, get a strong box or crate and spread about two inches of dry sand or peat moss at the bottom. Place the beetroot on top in a single layer, without stacking. Then, cover them fully with another layer of the dry material. Keep the box in a cool, dark, and dry spot like a basement or storage room. Check on the beetroot once a month. If any feel soft or have mould, take them out so they don’t spoil the rest.
Pickle The Beetroot
Pickling is an easy way to enjoy beetroot all year round. Cut off the greens, leaving a little stem, and boil the beetroot until tender; this may take up to an hour. Cool them in ice water, then peel and cut into chunks. In a separate pot, boil vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to make the brine. You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme and even garlic for extra flavour. Put the beetroot pieces in sterilised jars, pour the hot brine over them, and leave some space at the top. Seal the jars and store them in a cupboard; they’ll last for 12–18 months.
Image Credits: Freepik
Know How Long Fresh Beetroot Last
The way you store beetroot changes how long it stays good. In the fridge, unwashed whole beetroot can last two months. Cooked beetroot, though, should be eaten within three to four days. If you freeze boiled and peeled beetroot, they’ll be fine for a whole year. Pickled beetroot is the longest-lasting; it’s shelf-stable and great to keep on hand. They go well in salads or as a tangy side with cheese and greens. So if you find yourself with too many beetroot, don’t let them go to waste. Pick the method that fits your needs, and you’ll always have some ready to use.
