Whether you love them or hate them, beets might be worth a second (or third) try.
Packed with nutrients and vitamins, these earthy, crimson-hued root veggies can do wonders for your health.
Vegan Red Velvet Brownies
16
servingsBeets give these bean-based brownies the perfect hint of crimson.
Ingredients
- ½ cup
cooked beets
- 1 cup
red kidney beans
- ½ cup
cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon
vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon
almond extract
- 3/4 teaspoon
baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon
baking soda
- 4 tablespoons
apple sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon
salt
- 3/4 cup
brown sugar
- 1/2 cup
ground flax (put 1/4 cup of flax seeds in a clean coffee grinder, pulse until smooth.)
- 1/4 cup
chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup
raw cashew pieces
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Spray an 8×8-inch pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
In a food processor, puree kidney beans and beets. Transfer to a large bowl. Add remaining ingredients and mix by hand until smooth and fully combined.
Fold batter into the greased pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, turning the pan halfway through.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories—134 | Total Fat—10g | Cholesterol — 0mg | Sodium—144mg | Carbohydrate—10g | Dietary Fiber—3g | Protein —5g
Facts about Beets
How to Choose:
When searching for beets, bigger isn’t always better. Opt for baby beets as these will be more sweet and tender, and choose ones that are firm with taut, smooth skins. Another thing to look out for? Crisp, fresh-looking greens.
Storing Wisdom:
Cut off the greens. As with many veggies, the first step in storing beets is to give the greens a snip. Leave about an inch of stem attached, and then place beets into plastic bags for storage in the refrigerator. If you want to use the greens separately, store them in a bag, too, and place them in the fridge.
Did you know?
Beets are an excellent source of iron, making them the veggie of choice for those who suffer from anemia and fatigue. They’re also rich in potassium, which is one of the main minerals responsible for muscle contraction. This means they’re a heart-healthy choice that can help decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Love 'em or leave 'em.
If you hate beets, you’re not alone. While there’s no denying their health benefits, their distinct flavor has gained them legions of lovers and loathers. One high profile couple who could do without them? President Obama and First Lady Michelle, who asked that they not be planted in the White House organic vegetable garden.
