One of the most obvious signs that beetroot has gone bad is softness. If your beet feels soft, it's best to throw it away. But there are several other signs to look out for:
Signs of Spoiled Beetroot:
- Weight and Size: Good beetroot should feel heavy and be uniform in size. Avoid oddly shaped or lightweight pieces.
- Color: A fresh beet has a bright, vibrant color. Any fading or odd discoloration is a red flag.
- Skin: The skin should be smooth, clean, and free of cracks or scars.
- Smell: Fresh beetroot has a natural, earthy scent. If you notice a bad or strange odor, it’s likely spoiled.
- Flavor: A sweet, mild taste is ideal. Bitterness or an unusual taste may mean it's gone off.
- Storage Conditions: Store beetroot in a cool, dry place—away from heat and direct sunlight.
How to Store Beetroot Properly:
To keep your beets fresh for longer, follow these steps:
- Buy beetroot while it's still fresh and firm.
- Wash and air-dry it thoroughly before placing it in a sealed bag in the fridge.
- In the refrigerator, it can last 2–3 weeks.
- For long-term storage:
- Wash, peel, and cut into cubes.
- Freeze in airtight bags.
- Frozen beets stay good for 8–12 months.
- You can also freeze beetroot juice.
- For another method, try pickling: soak in water, vinegar, salt, lemon, and olive oil. Pickled beetroot can last up to 6 months.
Source: Atayeb Tabkha
