How to properly store beets so that they do not lose their qualities until spring: tips

Beet is a versatile product that becomes especially popular in the cold season. Salads, spreads, borscht and soups - not the whole list of dishes of which this product is the king. But in order that even in winter beet remained not sluggish and full of vitamins, you need to store it correctly.

FoodOboz editorial staff has collected for you the most useful tips on how and where to store beets in winter, so that they do not lose their qualities until spring.

Where it is better to store beets: in the basement or cellar

Both options are the most suitable for storing this vegetable, as the temperature there is kept in the range from 0 to +2ºC. At the same time, the level of humidity does not allow the beets to freeze. The first months of storage are the most important. At this time, the haulm can begin to sprout, and then the flavor of the root vegetable will change not for the better.

What to store beetsin inthe cellar or basement

Here there are also several options. The most common is in crates (plastic or wooden). In this case, in them you can lay out either only beets, or mix them with potatoes. Beets pull excess moisture out of vegetables, so it will be an ideal "partner".

Another way is to put beets in sand. To do this, root crops should be put in a box, and then pour sand over them. Before using this material, it is best to calcify it, so as not to get an infection. As an alternative, you can use table salt.

Is it possible to store beets in the cellar or basement without a box

The most effective way is to lay beets "pyramids" on the shelves. In this case, the surface should be covered with straw or burlap. The main condition for the success of this method of storing root crops is that the beets should not be in contact with the walls of the cellar.

Is it possible to store beets in bags

This method is very convenient if there is not as much space in the basement or cellar as you would like. Here you need to adhere to the main rule: bags with root crops should not stand on the floor (it will be ideal to place them on wooden pallets or bricks). At the same time, there should be no more than 40 kg in one bag.

How to properly store beets in an apartment

In the apartment, beets can be kept no more than 3-4 months, further it can already spoil. One of the suitable places is a glazed and frost-protected balcony (if available). Root crops should be put in a box with sand and leave a warm blanket nearby. Boxes can also be insulated with foam plastic.

If the balcony is still cold, beets in the same crates can be put directly in the apartment in a dark place away from the batteries.

A small amount of vegetables can also be freely stored in the refrigerator. To do this, it is desirable to wrap each root vegetable in parchment or foil. The storage period in the refrigerator also reaches 3-4 months.

When storing beets in the apartment, be sure to look through them from time to time and immediately remove spoiled, rotten root crops.

If you do not fit any of the above methods, how to store beets for the winter, root vegetables can be simply grated and put in a bag in the freezer or pickle.