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    Home >> Recipes >> Side Dish

    How To Cook Juicy Beets In Instant Pot (With Time Chart)

    Published: Feb 17, 2023 · Modified: Jul 20, 2023 by Jyoti Behrani · This post may contain affiliate links · 5 Comments

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    Quick and Healthy Instant Pot Beets Recipe with time chart! Try these mouthwatering beets cooked to perfection in just minutes. Perfect for salads, side dishes, and healthy eating.

    beets in instant pot

    Cooking beets in an Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) is a quick and easy way to prepare them than traditional cooking methods such as stovetop or roasting in an oven.

    My mom used to make beets in a stovetop pressure cooker. It was such a quick and healthy dish that could be enjoyed as it is or as aside. My mom used to call them sweet, candy-like. And yes, that's how I learned to eat beets as a kid. Seriously, they tasted just like candy and I could just eat them the whole day. LOL!!!

    I love to cook beets in Instant Pot. It is quick, easy and efficient than the traditional methods. Whenever I make Instant Pot beets, they come out tender, moist, and perfectly cooked every time.

    My kids love instant pot beets - sweet, juicy, and candy-like! I try to incorporate as many veggies as I can into our diet and what a great way to enjoy these flavorful and healthy beets.

    This quick and easy recipe is to cook tender, juicy, candy-like beets in Instant Pot. Learn how to cook beets or beetroots in an Instant Pot. The post also includes how to cook beets on the stovetop and oven method.

    Jump to:
    • Beets Nutritional values
    • How To Buy Beets
    • How To Cook Beets In Instant Pot
    • How To Cook Beets On Stovetop
    • How To Roast Whole Beets In An Oven
    • Storage
    • Serving
    • Instant Pot Beets Cooking Chart
    • FAQ
    • How To Cook Juicy Beets In Instant Pot (With Time Chart)
    • Related

    Beets Nutritional values

    Beetroots or beets have great nutritional value. Beets are high in natural sugars, low in calories, and a great source of nutrients such as vitamins, and minerals. They are also a good source of folic acid and fiber. Beets are delicious and due to their nutritional benefits, can easily fit into a well-balanced, healthy diet. See more information on nutritional value at USDA.gov.

    beets recipe instant pot

    How To Buy Beets

    When buying beets, follow these simple steps to ensure you choose the freshest and best-quality ones:

    1. Look for firm beets: Select beets that feel firm and heavy for their size. Avoid ones that are soft, shriveled, or have visible blemishes.
    2. Check the greens: If the beets come with their greens still attached, make sure the leaves are fresh, crisp, and vibrant in color. Avoid beets with wilted or yellowing greens.
    3. Smooth skin: Opt for beets with smooth, unblemished skin. Rough or wrinkled surfaces may indicate they are not as fresh.
    4. Size matters: Choose beets of similar size if you plan to cook them together, as it ensures even cooking.
    5. Avoid large roots: Beets with very large roots may have a woody or tough texture. Choose medium-sized beets for the best taste and texture.
    6. Organic options: If available and within your budget, consider buying organic beets to reduce exposure to pesticides.
    7. Seasonal availability: Beets are typically in season during the cooler months, so try to buy them during their peak season for the freshest produce.
    beet instant pot

    How To Cook Beets In Instant Pot

    Cooking beets in Instant Pot is a great way to retain most of their nutrient value, thus making them a healthier cooking option. Steaming the beets also helps retain the vibrant color of the beets, which is somewhat lost when beets are boiled. I find this method to be very efficient and easy.

    Prep The Beets

    When you bring beets home from the store, you can cook them right away or store them for later use. Beets will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if they are properly stored. Here's how I prep the beets:

    1. Trim the beet greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached. You can use these beet greens to make a stir fry or add them in soups or curries, just like any other greens.
    2. Gently scrub the beets with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt and debris. Wash the beets thoroughly.
    3. To store the beets, pat dry beets with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture. You can store the beets in a vegetable bag or a plastic zip-lock bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
    4. When you are ready to cook beets, remove them from the refrigerator and cook the beets as per desired.

    Pressure Cook

    Here's how to cook perfect beets in Instant Pot:

    1. Pick beets of somewhat equal size when cooking together.
    2. Pour a cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the beets on top of the trivet. You can also use a steamer basket. For small size cook for 10-12 minutes, for medium-size beets somewhere between 15-18 minutes, and larger beets cook for 20-25 minutes.
    3. Once the cooking time is up, use the 10-minute natural pressure release, and then after 10 minutes manually release the remaining pressure. Check for the doneness of the beets by inserting a knife through one of the beets. If not then cook them for a few more minutes. Carefully remove the cooked beets from the Instant Pot.
    4. Once the beets have cooled, the skin can be easily peeled off with a vegetable peeler or by rubbing it off with a paper towel. Instant Pot beets can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, or as a side dish. They can also be sliced and pickled for a tasty snack

    .

    instant pot beet recipe
    instant pot beets recipe
    instant pot beet recipes

    How To Cook Beets On Stovetop

    If you find beets have quite an intense earthy flavor then this method might be just right for you. Boiling the beets produces tender, less intense flavor beets. Beets lose some of their nutritional value and vibrant color, as the beets are boiled in hot water.

    1. Wash the beets thoroughly, and trim off the stem.
    2. Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water.
    3. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until fork-tender. For small to medium 20-25 minutes. For large beets 45-60 minutes.
    4. Immediately remove the cooked beets from the hot water and allow them to cool.
    5. Peel off the skin and enjoy beets

    How To Roast Whole Beets In An Oven

    Roasting the beets is yet another way of cooking beets. Roasting beets add to the sweetness and subtle flavor. Depending upon the size of the beets it can take somewhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

    1. Pat dry beets with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture. Arrange the beets in a deep baking dish.
    2. Drizzle some olive oil and give the beets an oil massage. Sprinkle some salt and pepper. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
    3. Roast beets at 400°F until fork-tender. Depending upon the size of the beets, it can take from 30 minutes to an hour. For small to medium-sized beets, roast for 30-45 minutes. For large beets, roast for 60 minutes or until fork-tender.
    4. Remove beets from the oven, and allow them to cool for 15-20 minutes. Cut the stem, and peel off the skin.
    beet instant pot

    Storage

    To store cooked beets, follow these steps:

    1. Cooling: Allow the cooked beets to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
    2. Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer the cooked beets to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing it.
    3. Moisture: If there is any residual moisture on the beets, dab them gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Too much moisture can lead to spoilage or the beets becoming mushy.
    4. Labeling: Write the storage date on the container or bag with a marker. Cooked beets can typically be refrigerated for up to 3 to 5 days.
    5. Temperature: Store the container or bag of cooked beets in the refrigerator at temperatures between 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Keep them in the vegetable drawer or a designated section for cooked vegetables.
    6. Avoid Cross-Contamination: When storing cooked beets, ensure they are not placed near raw meat, poultry, or seafood to prevent any potential cross-contamination.

    Serving

    There are endless possibilities to use the beets. I use cooked beets in salads, to make hummus, in smoothies, or dip. You can dice, chop, slice, or mash the beets. Use them to make bread dough, soups, curries, pilaf, and so on. Here some suggestions for beets:

    1. Beet Hummus: Blend cooked beets with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to create a vibrant and nutritious beet hummus. Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or veggie sticks for a colorful and tasty appetizer.
    2. Pickled Beets: Prepare homemade pickled beets by combining cooked and sliced beets with a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Let them marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Serve these tangy and flavorful pickled beets as a side or condiment for sandwiches and salads.
    3. Beet Smoothie: Add cooked and cooled beets to your favorite smoothie recipe for a nutrient-rich and vibrant drink. Combine them with fruits like berries, bananas, and a splash of orange juice or yogurt for a delicious and colorful treat.
    4. Beet and Quinoa Salad: Combine cooked quinoa with cooked beets, diced cucumber, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette dressing. This hearty and colorful salad works well as a standalone meal or a side dish for grilled chicken or fish.
    5. Beet Risotto: Stir in finely diced cooked beets into your favorite risotto recipe to add a stunning color and subtle sweetness to this creamy Italian dish. Serve it as a delightful main course or a side dish.
    instant pot beets

    Instant Pot Beets Cooking Chart

    Here's a cooking chart for Instant Pot beets based on their size:

    Size (inches in diameter)Cooking Time (minutes)
    1.Small Beets (1-1.75 inches)10-12
    2.Medium Beets (2-2.25 inches)15-18
    3.Large Beets (2.5-3 inches) 20-25
    4.X-Large Beets (over 3 inches)40+

    FAQ

    Does pressure cooking beets destroy nutrients?

    Pressure cooking beets can lead to some loss of nutrients due to the high heat and rapid cooking process, but it generally preserves more nutrients compared to boiling or extended cooking methods, making it a relatively healthier option for preparing beets. To minimize nutrient loss, using minimal amounts of water and avoiding overcooking the beets in the pressure cooker is best.

    Is it possible to overcook beets?

    Yes, it is possible to overcook beets. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy, lose their vibrant color, and result in a less appealing texture and taste. To avoid this, it's essential to monitor the cooking time carefully and test the beets with a fork for doneness.

    Is boiling beets better than steaming?

    Boiling and steaming beets are both viable cooking methods, each with its advantages. Boiling can be quicker and may result in softer beets while steaming helps retain more nutrients and preserves the natural flavors and colors of the beets. The choice between boiling and steaming depends on personal preference and the desired texture for the final dish.

    Do you wash beets before cooking?

    Yes, it is essential to wash beets thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt, debris, or residue on their surface. Scrub them gently under running water with a vegetable brush to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking.

    Can I cook Instant Pot Beets without a trivet?

    Yes, you can cook beets without the trivet or steamer basket. In that case, you would be boiling the beets instead of steaming them.

    Do I have to peel the skin?

    The skin of the beets is edible once it is cooked. It is a personal preference to leave the skin on or not on the beets. However, I prefer to peel the skin, once the beets are cooked.

    instant pot beets (beets instant pot)

    How To Cook Juicy Beets In Instant Pot (With Time Chart)

    Jyoti Behrani
    Quick and Healthy Instant Pot Beets Recipe with time chart! Try these mouthwatering beets cooked to perfection in just minutes. Perfect for salads, side dishes, and healthy eating.
    5 from 6 votes
    Print Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 20 minutes mins
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine All
    Servings 3
    Calories 73 kcal

    Equipment

    • Instant Pot
    • Steamer Rack Trivet
    • Steamer Basket

    Ingredients
     
     

    • 3 medium beets or beetroots
    • salt & pepper, to taste
    • 1 teaspoon olive oil, optional

    Instructions
     

    HOW TO PREP BEETS

    • Trim the beet greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached.
    • Gently scrub the beets with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt and debris. Wash the beets thoroughly.

    HOW TO COOK BEETS IN AN INSTANT POT

    • Pick beets of somewhat equal size when cooking together.
    • You will need Steamer rack trivet OR Steamer basket
      Pour a cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the beets on top of the trivet. Close the Instant Pot lid, with a vent on “sealing”.
    • Cook on Manual or Pressure Cook (high) for 15 minutes.
      Note: Adjust the cooking time depending on the Size (inches in diameter) of the beets.
      Small Beets (1-1.75 inches): 10-12 minutes
      Medium Beets (2-2.25 inches): 15-18 minutes
      Large Beets (2.5-3 inches): 20-25 minutes
      X-Large Beets (over 3 inches): 40+
    • Let pressure release naturally, around 10 minutes, and then manually remove the remaining pressure. Open the lid and check if beets are cooked by inserting a clean knife. If it goes through easily, the beets are cooked. If required cook for additional few minutes.
    • Remove the beets from the Instant Pot and onto a plate. Once beets are cool, peel off the skin using your hands or with the help of a paper towel.
    • Slice or cut into desired pieces. Enjoy beets as a side or in a salad!

    HOW TO COOK BEETS ON STOVETOP

    • Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water.
    • Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until fork-tender. For small to medium 20-25 minutes. For large beets 45-60 minutes.
    • Immediately removed the cooked beets from the hot water and allow them to cool.
    • Peel off the skin and enjoy beets.

    HOW TO ROAST WHOLE BEETS IN AN OVEN 

    • Pat dry beets with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
    • Arrange the beets in a baking dish. Drizzle some olive oil to coat the beats. Sprinkle some salt and pepper. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
    • Roast beets at 400°F until fork-tender. Depending upon the size of the beets, it can take from 30 minutes to an hour. For small to medium-size beets, roast for 30-45 minutes. For large beets, roast for 60 minutes or until fork-tender.
    • Remove beets from the oven, allow them to cool for 15-20 minutes. Cut the stem, and peel off the skin.

    HOW TO STORE COOKED BEETS

    • Peel and slice or cut the beets into desired pieces. Store it in airtight container for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Use it as desired.

    Notes

    Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the beets. 
    Please refer to the post for the following:
    1. Beets' Nutritional values
    2. How To Buy Beets
    3. Instant Pot Beets Cooking Chart
    4. Storage
    5. FAQ

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    How To Cook Juicy Beets In Instant Pot (With Time Chart)
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    73
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    0.3
    g
    0
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    0.05
    g
    0
    %
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    0.1
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    0.1
    g
    Sodium
     
    133
    mg
    6
    %
    Potassium
     
    553
    mg
    16
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    16
    g
    5
    %
    Fiber
     
    5
    g
    21
    %
    Sugar
     
    11
    g
    12
    %
    Protein
     
    3
    g
    6
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    56
    IU
    1
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    8
    mg
    10
    %
    Calcium
     
    27
    mg
    3
    %
    Iron
     
    1
    mg
    6
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Disclaimer

    Nutrition values are my best estimates. If you rely on them for your diet, use your preferred nutrition calculator.

    Tried this recipe?Mention @livingsmartandhealthy or tag #livingsmartandhealthy
    Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!Check out Living Smart And Healthy!

    KEYWORD

    beets in instant pot, beets instant pot, beets recipe instant pot, instant pot beets, instant pot beets recipe

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Toni says

      March 02, 2022 at 2:25 pm

      5 stars
      This is so easy!! Thank you so much!! I will do this method from now on.

      Log in to Reply
    2. Gloria says

      March 02, 2022 at 2:32 pm

      5 stars
      Any way you cook them, beets are delicious. Love them in salads, and my family loves pickled beets too. Thanks for all the tips.

      Log in to Reply
    3. Ieva says

      March 02, 2022 at 2:46 pm

      5 stars
      Cooked these in an instant pot following your instructions and the result was amazing! Just the right texture! Thanks for sharing your tips!

      Log in to Reply
    4. Kate says

      March 02, 2022 at 2:48 pm

      5 stars
      This is such a helpful guide, I often get beets in my veg box and will bookmark this for tips next time!

      Log in to Reply
    5. Louise says

      March 02, 2022 at 3:55 pm

      5 stars
      I usually bake my beets, but the stove top method for this is a great alternative for me, especially for making salads.

      Log in to Reply

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