Beetroot powder is crafted from the dried and pulverized roots of the beet plant. This fine powder is characterized by its vibrant pink hue and a velvety texture that dissolves or blends seamlessly into various mediums. When engaging with beetroot powder, you're greeted by its distinctive earthy aroma, reminiscent of fresh beets, tinged with a hint of natural sweetness.
As a culinary ingredient, its vibrant color makes it an appealing choice as a natural food colorant. However, chefs should be mindful of its starchy composition, which can lead to clumping if not handled with care. While it can beautifully tint creams and frostings, one should be cautious when baking, as the betalains present in the powder might cause it to fade to a rusty orange. These betalains are not just sensitive to heat but also to light and air, necessitating storage in cool, dark, and air-tight conditions to preserve its rich color and properties.
TASTING NOTES
Earthy sweetness with a subtle mineral undertone
AROMA
Richly earthy with hints of natural sweetness
CHARACTERISTICS
Vibrant magenta hue with a velvety, fine texture.
PAIRINGS
Try pairing with citrus, creamy cheeses, robust greens, and earthy spices
SUBSTITUTIONS
Pomegranate powder for color, spinach powder for nutrients, or carrot powder for sweetness
USAGE
A natural coloring agent in dishes from smoothies to frostings
BOTANICAL NAME
Beta vulgaris rubra
In confectionery, it's used to impart a pink to deep red shade to candies, marshmallows, frostings, and even some baked goods. Due to its soluble nature, it seamlessly integrates into liquids, making it a favored choice for coloring beverages, smoothies, and sauces.
Beetroot has historically been used as a cheek and lip stain? Long before commercial cosmetics became widely available, many women would apply beetroot juice to impart a natural, rosy flush to their cheeks and lips, achieving a subtle and fresh look
