Napoleon set aside 70,000 acres to explore the sugar-producing potential of beet. France was then able to produce its own sugar in an era of sugar shortages due to wartime blockades. Since then, sugar beets of all colors and varieties have been widely cultivated, including what is now a global sweetener. Beets are usually boiled, roasted and pickled. They can also be grated into salads, adding color and a tasty chew. Whether you grow or buy beets, they're usually best harvested between June and October - the growing season in the Midwest. When buying, look for beets that are firm but not "rubbery" and squeeze them tightly with a healthy, crunchy vegetable. If you can't prepare them right away, put the beets and vegetables in a bag in the refrigerator crisper; they should be good for two to three weeks. It's best to leave beets unwashed.

Many people don't realize that you have to put four or five inches of stem on the beets when you cook something. This is where the deep red color comes from. Adding vinegar also helps keep the deep red color. Beets are easier to peel after cooking, at which point you can remove the short stems. Health Benefits of BeetsBeets contain more sugar than any other vegetable, but they are low in calories, fat and cholesterol. They are also an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and folate, which helps make and maintain RNA and DNA cells and prevents anemia. They also contain potassium, which is essential for building muscle and regulating the heart's electrical activity, while manganese helps maintain muscle and nerve function, builds bone strength, regulates blood sugar levels and promotes a healthy immune system.

Betaine, an amino acid found in beets, inhibits the formation of carcinogens and protects against colon and stomach cancer. When 27 of the most commonly used vegetables in the U.S. were studied to determine their cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values, beets and cauliflower and red peppers proved to be the highest. Consumption of beets may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Studies from the London School of Medicine and Bart's Hospital in London, as well as research by Russian researcher Mikhail Tombak, have revealed new information about beets. The research shows that beets have a higher iron content than spinach, and that they are rich in phytonutrients with detoxifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that control the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks. Beets are one of the best sources of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are great for eye health. Laboratory studies on human tumor cells have shown beets to significantly inhibit tumor growth. Daily consumption of beet juice has been reported to promote blood flow to the brain, which in turn limits frontal lobe degeneration. Beets also contain betaine, which increases serotonin levels in the brain.

Procedure:Place the beets on a bed of lettuce cut into small pieces and top with an orange. Spread sour cream on top and sprinkle over the chives for a delicious salad! Beet Fun Facts

Because of their deep red color and staining ability, beet juice can be used to color Easter eggs. SummaryWhile beets may not be appreciated by some, they are more popular for their rich flavor, firm texture, and intense color. Pickled beets are a popular way to flavor them with vinegar, sugar, and cinnamon, making their flavor as intense as their color. Harvard's style - not pickled - is closer to beet, cooked straight through with a little salt. Beets are versatile, have a myriad of nutritional qualities, and keep well.