Beetroot - power from nature

Beetroot is an extremely versatile vegetable that is available almost all year round, thank goodness. It used to be eaten almost exclusively as a pickle, but thank goodness we've discovered that it can be used in so many different ways.
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Beetroot is native to the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Initially, only the leaves were eaten and only with time was the tuber discovered to be delicious and useful. In the past, beetroot was used almost exclusively for medicinal purposes, mainly for fevers and stomach problems, and its leaves were used to dress wounds.

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The first and most important property of beetroot is that it is very good for the whole body.

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Beetroot reduces the risk of heart disease because it is rich in folic acid and betaine. It also helps regulate blood pressure, as the nitrates in beetroot are one of the factors responsible for the health of our blood vessels, helping to dilate and relax them, thus improving circulation. This improves our circulation and lowers our blood pressure. It is also good for the liver and can slightly lower cholesterol levels. Beetroot's good effects on circulation and blood vessels also help to get more blood to the brain, which can improve mental performance.

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Beetroot is very rich in essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C and manganese. It contains a lot of fibre, which helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. It is also rich in minerals and trace elements and has a high iron content.

When buying beetroot, always try to choose fresh. The signs of a fresh beetroot bunch are the blue leaves and the bulb free of blemishes. Smaller tubers are usually sweeter. Beetroot will keep perfectly well in the fridge for up to a week.
Its uses are extremely varied and exciting. Beetroot is a very versatile ingredient.
It can be eaten raw in salads or sandwiches.
It is also delicious warm in soups. As a spicy, warming cream soup, it's a really healthy and filling dish.
It's also perfect steamed or baked and can be used in a variety of exciting side dishes.
If you like it savoury, you can make it into crisps and, although it sounds strange, it's also great in desserts. Beetroot also brings out the flavour of chocolate, so you can make brownies or chocolate biscuits if you have a sweet tooth.
Beetroot is also a real treasure for vegetarians and vegans, as it can be used in a wide variety of dishes. For example, burgers. Yes, beetroot burgers. The taste of roasted beetroot is completely different from the pickles we eat. Fry it up with feta and you can make a heavenly beetroot patty.

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It is safe to say that beetroot is a real superfood. Not only does it have many health benefits, but it can also be prepared in a wide variety of ways. So now it's time to break out of the familiar pickle line and try a really exciting beetroot dish.