How to Remove Skin From Beets

Do not remove the skin before cooking.

The tough, rough-looking skin of beetroots hides a delightfully sweet and earthy flavor underneath that initial layer. Though you wouldn't want to eat the beet skin, you shouldn't ever remove it before cooking the roots since it helps retain nutrients and the beet's vibrant color. Cooking also helps to loosen the skin, making the beet easy to peel once it's juicy and tender.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Cook the beets as you would normally. Roasting, boiling and steaming are the most effective cooking methods for removing beet skin.

2. Allow the beets to cool before handling them. Slice off both ends.

3. Hold the beets under cold running water. Using your finger tips, rub the skin until it loosens from the beet, then peel it off. Wear disposable gloves to avoid staining your hands.

References

• "Bon Appetit"; Beets; Camille Hahn
• The City Cook: Beets 101
• NPR; The Beet Goes On; Howard Yoon; May 2006