What can you do with beet leaves (Instant Pot)

In this post, you learn the uses of beet leaves, how to cook them by steaming in the Instant Pot, and how to store them.

You may also like Instant Pot Egg and BeetPickles and Roasted Beet Salad.

Beet Leaves

Beet leaves are the leafy green tops of the beetroot plant, scientifically known as Beta vulgaris. These leaves are typically deep green, like spinach or Swiss chard.

Here are some critical points about beet leaves:

• Nutritional Value: They are highly nutritious and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron. 
• Versatility: It can be used in various culinary applications. They can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed or steamed as a side dish, or incorporated into soups, stews, and stir-fries.
• Flavor Profile: The leaves have a flavor profile similar to spinach but a slightly earthier and more pronounced taste. The bitterness of the leaves tends to mellow when cooked.

Beet Leaves Uses

Beet leaves can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be added to salads for a nutritional boost, sautéed with garlic and olive oil as a side dish, or blended into smoothies for a nutrient-packed drink. Additionally, they can be used as a wrapper for savory fillings or chopped and added to soups and casseroles for extra flavor and texture. Here are several ways you can use them:

• Salads: Beet leaves can be a base for salads like leafy greens. They are best served with honey mustard dressing.
• Sauteed or Stir-Fried: Like spinach or Swiss chard, they can be sautéed or stir-fried with garlic, onions, and olive oil. This cooking method helps soften the leaves and reduce their bitterness.
• Soups and Stews: Add chopped leaves before turning off the heat.
• Smoothies: They can be a nutritious addition to green smoothies. They blend well with fruits like bananas, berries, and apples, boosting vitamins and minerals.

• Pesto: Use beet leaves as a substitute for basil in pesto recipes. Combine them with nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
• Wraps: they are excellent wraps for sandwiches or tacos. They provide a sturdy base and a slightly earthy flavor to your meal.
• Pickled: You can pickle them just like beetroot. Pickling preserves their freshness and slightly softens their texture, making them a tasty addition to sandwiches or salads.
• For frittatas or Quiche: add them to my burrito filling.

How to Prepare Beet Leaves

• Separate the beetroot from the leaves.
• Wash the leaves and separate the stem and the leaves. Slice them into bite-size pieces.

How to cook in the Instant Pot

Ingredients:

• Fresh beet leaves and stems
• Roasted Sesame Oil
• Soy sauce
• Oyster Sauce

Instructions:

• Set the inner pot in the Instant Pot base. Add two cups of water.
• Set the air fryer basket. Put on the steaming tray.

• Arrange the stem first and then top it with the leaves.

• Steam for two minutes. Quickly release the pressure once done.

• Transfer them to a plate and season with soy, oyster, and roasted sesame oil.

How to Store

When purchasing beets with the greens attached, look for leaves that are vibrant and not wilted. To store them, remove the leaves and stem from the beetroot, wash and dry them thoroughly, and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. By following these steps, you can prolong its freshness and ensure they’re ready to use whenever you need them.

1. Separate the Leaves: If you’ve bought whole beets with the leaves attached, separate the leaves from the roots. 
2. Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the beet leaves under cold water to remove dirt or debris. 
3. Storage Bag or Container: Place the clean and dry beet leaves in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The perforations or paper towels help absorb excess moisture and prevent the leaves from becoming soggy.
4. Refrigerate: Store the beet leaves in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing beet leaves is around 32 to 40°F (0 to 4°C). Ensure the leaves in the drawer are not crowded to allow for proper air circulation.
5. Use Within a Week: Beet leaves are best used within a week of harvesting or purchasing. As time passes, they may start to wilt and lose their freshness. Use them as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture.