HOW TO COOK BEETS IN THE INSTANT POT
This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook beets in the Instant Pot. Cooking beets in the Instant Pot makes them tender and flavorful, allowing them to retain more nutritional properties. Beets can be added to a variety of dishes, making them a delicious and convenient addition to many meals.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Stainless steel trivet
- stainless steel steamer basket
Instructions
- Remove the beet green leaves from the beet by cutting them with a knife or by gently ripping them with your hands.
- Wash the beets well with water to remove any dirt.
- Cut off the stem and root. Cut large beets in half to cook evenly. This cooking method applies to beets approximately the size of the palm of your hand.
- Add one cup of warm water to the liner of the Instant Pot. Add the trivet and place the steamer basket on top.
- Place beets in the steamer basket. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and turn the release valve to the closed position. Set the manual pressure cook timer to 13 minutes.
- When the cooking is complete, carefully turn the pressure release valve to allow for a Quick Pressure Release. With oven mitts, remove the steamer basket and place the cooked beets in a dish on the side. Let them sit uncovered while they cool.
- Once cooled, the beet skin will easily slide off by pulling it with your hands. Be careful with the surface that you choose to do this on, as it can get messy and beets stain easily. I do this on a plastic cutting board, and I recommend wearing an apron and using kitchen gloves to avoid having your hands stained by the juice. The red stains can remain on the skin for days!
- Now the beets are ready to enjoy, served warm or cold, sliced, and lightly seasoned on their own or added to dishes such as salads and soups. Smile and enjoy!
Notes
SERVING INSTRUCTIONS:
Traditionally, cooked beets are served as a simple side dish in Greece. Drizzle with a large helping of extra virgin olive oil, a dash of sea salt, a dash of dried oregano, and if you like, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar. Beets prepared this simple way go very well as a side to accompany any meat, chicken, and especially seafood dish. Cooked beets are often served alongside their cooked green leaves, seasoned with extra virgin olive oil and a dash of sea salt.
Cooked beets can also be added to your favourite salad or soup.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Store leftover Instant Pot Cooked Beets in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing them as the texture will be slightly compromised.