This simple and nutritious recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the creamy richness of milk, creating a delicious and healthy drink or soup that you can easily make at home. With just three ingredients, you can enjoy this wholesome and comforting dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium beets
  • 4 cups milk (dairy or plant-based, such as almond or oat milk)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for natural sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beets

  1. Wash and Peel: Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel the beets using a vegetable peeler.
  2. Grate the Beets: Grate the beets using a box grater or food processor.

2. Boil the Milk

  1. Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a large saucepan and place it over medium heat.
  2. Bring to a Boil: Slowly bring the milk to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching on the bottom of the pan.

3. Combine the Beets and Milk

  1. Add the Beets: Once the milk has reached a boil, add the grated beets to the saucepan.
  2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the beets are tender and the milk has taken on a beautiful pink hue.

4. Sweeten (Optional)

  1. Add Sweetener: If desired, stir in the honey or maple syrup to add a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.

5. Serve

  1. Strain (Optional): For a smoother drink, you can strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the beet solids. Alternatively, you can leave the grated beets in the mixture for added texture and fiber.
  2. Enjoy: Pour the beet-infused milk into cups or bowls and enjoy it warm. This can be served as a comforting drink or a light soup.

Benefits of Beets and Milk

  • Beets: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, beets help improve blood circulation, support liver function, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Milk: Provides calcium, protein, and essential vitamins. Plant-based milks can offer additional nutrients depending on the type chosen (e.g., almond milk is rich in vitamin E, while oat milk provides fiber).
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness without refined sugars, providing additional antioxidants and minerals.

Tips

  • Choose Fresh Beets: Fresh, firm beets will yield the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
  • Adjust Sweetness: The amount of honey or maple syrup can be adjusted to your taste preference or omitted entirely if you prefer a more savory dish.
  • Experiment with Spices: For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the milk while it simmers.

Conclusion

This simple recipe of pouring beets into boiling milk creates a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a comforting drink or light soup. With just three ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and offers numerous health benefits. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this beet-infused milk is a unique and wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the natural goodness!