Beets are a delicious root vegetable, but they can be difficult to find in some areas and can be expensive.
If you’re looking for a substitute that tastes similar to or even better than beets, we’ve got you covered.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss 7 delicious substitutes for beets that have nearly the same color, taste, and texture.
Substitutes for beets
- Red cabbage
- Carrot
- Parsnips
- Turnip
- Swiss chard
- Sweet potato
- Spinach
Red cabbage
Beets are often used in salads and soups for their color and earthy flavor, but they can be quite expensive. Red cabbage has a similar earthy flavor and color and can be used as a replacement in many dishes.
It is very healthy and nutritious. It is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in calories and fat.
Red cabbage is also a great source of fiber and vitamins C and K. This means that it can help to boost your immune system and maintain bone health.
Carrot
Carrots are a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be used as a substitute for beets in many recipes. They are just as healthy, if not more so, and they have a delicious, sweet taste that many people enjoy.
They are low in calories and fat, and they are a good source of fiber. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced, and can also be used in soups, stews, and salads.
They are easy to find and can be cooked in many different ways, making them a versatile ingredient.
When substituting carrots for beets, it is important to keep in mind that they will not have the same color. However, this should not affect the flavor or texture of the dish.
Parsnips
Parsnips are a type of root vegetable that can be used as a substitute for beets. Both vegetables have a similar sweet taste, but parsnips also have a unique spiciness that can add an extra dimension to your dish.
They can be used in place of beets in both cooked and raw dishes. They can be roasted, mashed, pureed, or even eaten raw.
Parsnips are also a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C and are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
Turnip
Turnips are a great substitute for beets. They have a milder taste, with slight tones of spice so they won’t overpower other flavors in your dish.
Turnips are soft when cooked, so they’ll melt in your mouth. They’re also very healthy. They’re low in calories and fat, and they’re a good source of fiber.
Turnips are a versatile vegetable, so they can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be roasted, mashed, or even eaten raw.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish or an entrée, turnips are a great option. Just remember that they will not give the same color as beets.
Swiss chard
Swiss chard is a dark leafy green that is related to the beet. It has a slightly bitter taste with earthy undertones and is grown for its large edible leaves and thick stalks, which can be eaten cooked or raw.
Swiss chard is a versatile ingredient that can be used in soups, stews, stir-fries, and even desserts. It is high in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium.
Swiss chard can be difficult to find in grocery stores, but it is typically available at farmers’ markets and specialty food shops.
Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are an excellent substitute for beets in a number of dishes for many reasons.
First, sweet potatoes are much easier to find than beets, making them a more practical choice for many cooks. They are often sold in supermarkets year-round, whereas beets are only in season during the fall and winter months.
Second, they have a sweetness that can complement the other flavors in a dish, while still allowing the other ingredients to shine.
Finally, they also have a bit of spiciness to them that can add an extra dimension of flavor.
When substituting sweet potatoes for beets, roasting is generally the best cooking method as it brings out the natural sweetness of the root vegetable. So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-find substitute for beets, sweet potatoes are the perfect option.
Spinach
Spinach is a versatile leafy green that can be used as a substitute for beets in a variety of dishes.
When raw, it has a milder taste than beets and can be used in salads or as a garnish. Cooked spinach also has a mild flavor, making it a good choice for soups, stews, and other savory dishes.
In addition to its mild taste, it offers a number of health benefits. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It also contains fiber and antioxidants.
Spinach is easy to find year-round at most supermarkets. Whether you use it raw or cooked, spinach is an excellent way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals.
FAQs
Are there any health benefits to using substitutes for beets?
There are many health benefits to using substitutes for beets. All of the substitutes listed are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect your body from disease.
Additionally, these vegetables are low in calories and fat, making them a good choice for those looking to eat healthy.
Which substitute is best for a particular dish?
When choosing a substitute for beets, it’s important to consider the flavor and texture of the dish you’re making.
If you’re looking for a substitute with a similar taste and texture, sweet potatoes are a good option. They have a sweetness that complements other flavors in a dish and a bit of spiciness that can add depth of flavor.
If you’re looking for a substitute with a milder flavor, spinach is a good choice. It can be used raw or cooked and has a number of health benefits.
Conclusion
If a recipe calls for beets, but you don’t have any on hand, you can substitute them with one of the other vegetables listed above.
Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be different than if you use beets. For example, parsnips have a sweet taste with a unique spiciness, while turnips are milder with a slight taste of spice.
So consider what you want to make and choose a substitute accordingly.