Roasting beets is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious addition to your dishes. If you’re looking to add some variety to your meals, then roasted beets are definitely worth trying out. However, once you’ve roasted your beets, it’s important to know how long they can last before they spoil. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how long roasted beets last and how to store them properly.
Why Roasted Beets are Awesome
Roasting beets is a popular cooking method because it brings out the delicious natural flavor and sweetness of the beets. Roasting also helps to retain the nutrients that are found in beets.
Roasted beets are versatile, and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be served as a side dish or used as a topping for salads or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
How Long Do Roasted Beets Last?
The shelf life of roasted beets depends on a number of different factors, including the method of roasting, the storage method, and the temperature of the storage location.
Fridge Storage
If you’ve roasted your beets, you should put them in the fridge within two hours of roasting them at room temperature. When stored in the fridge, roasted beets can last for up to five days.
Freezer Storage
If you have large quantities of roasted beets that you don’t plan to use for some time, freezing them is a good option. You should place the roasted beets in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag and place it in the freezer. Roasted beets can last up to eight months in the freezer.
How to Store Roasted Beets Properly
Proper storage is crucial if you want to maximize the shelf life of roasted beets. Here are some tips to help you store roasted beets properly:
Store in Airtight Containers
Roasted beets should be stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture from entering and spoiling them. You can use airtight containers made of plastic, glass, or metal.
Refrigerate Promptly
Roasted beets should be stored in the fridge within two hours of roasting them at room temperature. This helps to prevent the growth of bacteria that can spoil the beets.
Freeze if Necessary
If you have large quantities of roasted beets that you don’t plan to use for some time, freezing them is a good option. Place the roasted beets in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag and place it in the freezer. Roasted beets can last up to eight months in the freezer.
Keep Away From Moisture
Moisture is the enemy of roasted beets. To prevent moisture from spoiling your roasted beets, make sure that you store them in an airtight container and keep them away from damp environments.
Keep Temperature Low
Roasted beets should be stored at a temperature of 40°F or below. This is the ideal temperature for preventing the growth of bacteria and keeping the beets fresh.
Keep Away From Strong-Smelling Foods
Roasted beets can absorb strong odors from other foods, so it is important to store them away from foods with strong smells such as garlic or onions.
How to Tell If Roasted Beets Have Gone Bad
Even if you’ve stored your roasted beets properly, there is still a chance that they could go bad. Here are some indicators that your roasted beets have gone bad:
Smell
If your roasted beets have a sour or unpleasant smell, it’s a clear sign that they have gone bad.
Texture
If the texture of your roasted beets has changed significantly from when you first roasted them, such as becoming slimy or mushy, it’s a sign that they have gone bad.
Mold
If you see mold on your roasted beets, it’s a clear sign that they have gone bad and should be discarded immediately.
The Benefits of Eating Roasted Beets
Eating roasted beets has several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of eating roasted beets:
Nutrient Dense
Beets are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, fiber, folate, potassium, and iron. Roasting beets helps to preserve these nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Blood Pressure
Eating beets can help to lower blood pressure due to their high nitrate content. Nitrates help to relax and dilate blood vessels, which can lead to lower blood pressure.
Brain Function
The nitrates found in beets can help to improve blood flow to the brain, which can boost cognitive function.
Conclusion
Roasted beets are a nutritious and delicious addition to your meals. When stored properly, they can last for up to five days in the fridge or up to eight months in the freezer. Make sure to store roasted beets in an airtight container, keep them away from moisture and strong-smelling foods, and store them at a temperature of 40°F or below. If your roasted beets smell bad, feel slimy or mushy or have mold, it is time to discard them. Adding roasted beets to your diet can provide several health benefits, such as being nutrient dense, helping to lower blood pressure, and improving brain function.
Most Common Questions Related to How Long Do Roasted Beets Last
- How long do roasted beets last in the fridge?
- Roasted beets can last up to five days in the fridge if stored properly.
- How long do roasted beets last in the freezer?
- Roasted beets can last up to eight months in the freezer if stored properly.
- How do you store roasted beets?
- Roasted beets should be stored in an airtight container, kept away from moisture and strong-smelling foods, and stored at a temperature of 40°F or below.
- What are the health benefits of eating roasted beets?
- Eating roasted beets can provide several health benefits, such as being nutrient dense, helping to lower blood pressure, and improving brain function.
References
1. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/are-roasted-beets-good-for-you.aspx
2. https://www.fruitsandveggies.org/stories/the-beauty-of-roasting-your-beets/