Harvard Beets

Harvard Beets

4 servings
Harvard Beets are an amazing old-fashioned recipe that you will fall in love with. This is easy to make after you roast beets, and is a fantastic side dish.

Ingredients

  • granulated sugar)

    (66 grams

    ⅓ c
  • cornstarch)

    (7 grams

    1 tbsp
  • white vinegar)

    (78.86 ml

    ⅓ c
  • water)

    (78.86 ml

    ⅓ c
  • beets)

    roasted and cut into bite sized pieces (680.38 grams

    1 ½ lb
  • whole cloves
    3
  • unsalted butter)

    (14.1 grams

    1 tbsp
  • kosher salt)

    (.66 grams

    ¼ tsp
  • cinnamon
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Combine the sugar, cornstarch, vinegar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down and simmer for 5 minutes. You should see consistent small bubbles.

  2. 2

    Turn the heat down to low, add the beets and cloves to the liquid, and cook uncovered for 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add in the butter, salt, cinnamon, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm.

Harvard Beets

Harvard Beets

45 min4 servings175 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a classic, comforting side dish that feels both elegant and easy to make? Harvard Beets are that timeless recipe, transforming humble beets into a sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious accompaniment perfect for any meal.

What makes this old-fashioned Harvard Beets recipe truly special is its perfect balance. The gentle acidity of white vinegar cuts through the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, all brought together by a silky, glossy sauce. It's a method that elevates simple ingredients into something truly memorable, providing a delightful contrast to richer main courses.

When you serve these Harvard Beets, expect a vibrant, jewel-toned dish with tender, bite-sized pieces of beet enveloped in a glistening, flavorful glaze. The sauce is both sweet and subtly tart, with warm undertones of cinnamon and a hint of clove, creating a complex flavor profile that's surprisingly easy to achieve. This side dish offers a wonderfully comforting experience, reminding you of beloved family recipes and classic home cooking.

Feel free to adjust the spice profile to your liking; a little extra cinnamon can deepen its warmth. While the recipe calls for specific spices, you can experiment with a tiny pinch of ginger for an added zing. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can slightly reduce the granulated sugar, or for more tang, a touch more vinegar will brighten the sauce. Ensuring your beets are properly roasted and tender before making the sauce is the key to perfect texture.

This makes a fantastic side for holiday dinners, Sunday roasts, or even a sophisticated weeknight meal, adding a beautiful pop of color and flavor to your plate. Its vibrant appearance and rich taste complement everything from roasted chicken to hearty beef dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions