Check if the beets are cooked. This recipe assumes the use of cooked beets (store-bought or previously cooked). If you have raw beets, cook them until tender before starting (this usually takes 40–60 minutes; in this recipe, we assume the beets are ready). Peel the beets (if they are whole) and cut them into thin slices or cubes with a side of ~1 cm — thin slices will absorb the flavor of the sauté faster. Peel the onion and cut it into thin half-moons. Prepare your workspace: a bowl for the beets, a cutting board, a sharp knife.
Description
Traditional Polish sautéed beets are a simple, aromatic dish from regional cuisine, perfect as a standalone lunch or as a side to potatoes and meats. In this version, we focus on the sweet-sour balance: sweet beets and onion with a lightly browned roux, accented with a hint of marjoram. The dish has a deep red color and a creamy texture when finished with sour cream (optional). This quick, spring version is great for a family lunch and can be served with young potatoes, boiled sausage, or potato pancakes.
Ingredients Used
Ingredients (11)
- Beets (raw) 800 g
- Onion 2 szt. (~300 g)
- Butter 30 g
- Wheat flour 20 g
- Rapeseed oil 15 g
- Sugar 10 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Salt 0.2 szczypt (~5 g)
- Black pepper 2 szczypty (~1 g)
- Marjoram 2 g
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- Apple cider vinegar 15 ml
- Sour cream 100 g
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Preparation steps
Preparation
Frying onions
Heat a medium-sized skillet (preferably 24–28 cm) over medium heat. Pour in the canola oil and wait 30–45 seconds until it warms up a bit. Add the butter and wait for it to melt and start to foam slightly. Toss in the chopped onion and spread it evenly across the surface of the skillet. Sauté for 4–6 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until the onion becomes soft, golden, and slightly translucent - be careful not to let it burn.
Roux
Move the sautéed onion to the side of the pan to make space. In the free, uncovered part of the pan, add the wheat flour and mix it with the butter and oil until it forms a smooth paste (roux). Cook the roux for 1–2 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color and stops smelling like raw flour — it will have a slightly nutty aroma. This is an important step: the roux gives the dish shine and thickens the sauce.
Adding beets and seasoning
In the pan with the roux, add the chopped beets and gently mix so that each piece is coated with the roux. Season with salt and sugar — the sugar will soften the natural earthiness of the beets. Add marjoram and black pepper. Sauté over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring every 1–2 minutes, until the beets are hot and the flavors meld together. If the mixture is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of water or hot broth.
Finishing
Taste the beets and season to your liking. If you want to add acidity, pour in apple cider vinegar (optional 1 tablespoon) and quickly mix — you'll immediately notice a brighter flavor. For a creamy version, add cream, stir, and heat for another 1–2 minutes, but do not let it boil. The cream will make the sauce velvety and milder.
Serving
Transfer the beets to a platter or plates. Serve hot with young potatoes, roasted meat, or as a standalone dish with cottage cheese. For decoration, you can sprinkle with freshly ground pepper or parsley leaves.
Fun Fact
Beets were valued in folk cuisine not only as food but also as medicine — it was believed that they improve circulation and strengthen the body. Sautéed beets are a classic of Polish cuisine, often appearing on festive tables in various regions.
Best for
Tips
Serve with young potatoes sprinkled with dill or with pieces of cottage cheese for a contrast in textures. For meats (duck, pork), the beets will add sweetness and color. For a vegan version, omit the butter and cream, and use oil and plant-based yogurt.
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it in a pan over low heat, optionally adding a tablespoon of water to prevent sticking. It is best to add the cream only during reheating to avoid curdling.
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