How to cook beets for New Year's salads in 10 minutes: the best life hacks

Beetroot is an indispensable ingredient for many favorite dishes, such as borscht, vinaigrette, or herring under a "coat." However, the length of time it takes to cook them traditionally often scares off even experienced cooks.

FoodOboz has prepared three simple life hacks that will help you cook beets in just 10 minutes. It is not difficult at all.

How to cook beetroot in the microwave with a cellophane bag

This method is ideal if you have a microwave. Thanks to the cellophane bag, the beetroot cooks quickly and evenly, while retaining its color and texture.

1. Take fresh beets. Wash it under running water and peel it if desired. If the root vegetable is large, cut it into several pieces to reduce the cooking time.

2. Put the prepared beetroot on a plate, and cover it with water so that it covers about a third of the vegetable.

3. Make punctures with a fork or toothpick in several places.

4. Cover the beets with a plastic bag and tie the bag, leaving some space for steam to escape.

5. Set the microwave to maximum power and set the timer for 10 minutes. During cooking, check the condition of the vegetable every 3-4 minutes to avoid overdrying. Check the beetroot for doneness with a knife or fork. If it is easily pierced, it is ready.

Cook beetroot in a slow cooker

If you have a multicooker or pressure cooker, this device will be your reliable assistant. Thanks to the sealed design, beets cook quickly and their flavor and nutrients are preserved.

1. Wash the beetroot and peel it if necessary.

2. It is better to cut large root vegetables into equal pieces so that all parts cook equally.

3. Put the beetroot in the multicooker bowl. Pour enough water to cover half of the vegetable.

4. Turn on the Stew or Soup mode for 10 minutes. If your model has a pressure control function, select the medium setting. When the program is complete, test the beets with a knife or fork. If the fruit is soft, it is ready to eat.

Cook the beetroot in the microwave without a bag

This method is similar to the first but does not require the use of a cellophane bag. This is convenient if you don't have a bag at hand or don't want to use one.

1. Peel and wash the beets.

2. Cut large fruits into equal pieces.

3. Place the beetroot in a deep bowl and add enough water to cover about a third of the vegetable.

4. Make several pricks with a fork to ensure even heating.

5. Turn the microwave on to maximum power and set the timer for 10 minutes.

6. Every 3-4 minutes, open the microwave door and check the condition of the beets.

7. If the vegetable is still hard after the time is up, add another 2-3 minutes. Although this method requires a little more attention, it remains quick and convenient.