The history and benefits of beetroot (and recipes!)

Beetroot, originally from North Africa, was used by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans as both food and medicine. In Ancient Greece, it was used as an aphrodisiac and was also known to be an excellent fortifying agent. It began to be cultivated in Europe from the 16th century onwards, but only became a very popular food product in the 19th century.

Currently, it is cultivated worldwide and used in many culinary dishes. In Portugal, it is mainly consumed in salads and soups, but it is also used to make juices and cakes.

Properties of Beetroot

It is a nutrient-rich food and an excellent source of iron, folic acid, potassium, and vitamin C. It is also very low in calories, with only 43 calories per 100 grams. Furthermore, it is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals and offer benefits that include helping to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and for helping to lower blood pressure. Due to its high nitrate content, it may help improve physical performance and reduce fatigue during exercise.

Beetroot Recipes

1. Beetroot and Feta Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 medium beets
• 1 red onion
• 100g of feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook them in salted water for 30 minutes, or until tender. Peel them and cut them into cubes. Slice the onion thinly.

In a bowl, mix them with the onion and feta cheese. Season with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

2. Beetroot and Coconut Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 medium beets
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 400ml of coconut milk
• 500ml of vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Peel and dice the beets. Finely chop the onion and garlic. In a saucepan, heat the oil and sauté the onion and garlic for a few minutes. Add the vegetable broth and cook for 20 minutes, or until the beets are tender. Add the coconut milk and cook for another 5 minutes.

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Beetroot Chips

Ingredients:

• 2 medium beets
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Peel them and slice them thinly. In a bowl, mix the slices with olive oil and salt. Spread the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes, or until the slices are crispy.

This food is very healthy and versatile and can be used in many ways in the kitchen. Besides being low in calories, it's rich in very important nutrients and can help protect the body against chronic diseases. Try including it more often in your diet, whether with our delicious and easy recipe suggestions or with your imagination :)

If you're eager to test your culinary skills, don't waste any time! Buy a basket of fruits and vegetables from Equal Food now and help combat waste, save on your bill, and finally, unleash your imagination and cook delicious meals that will leave you wanting more.

And lastly, never forget: beetroot, the root that's good for the body and soul!