Beets are a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Freezing beets is an excellent way to preserve their freshness and nutritional value for future use. In just 12 simple steps, you can learn how to freeze your beets and enjoy them year-round.

1. Choose fresh beets: Look for beets that are firm, smooth-skinned, and deep red in color with healthy green leaves. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots.

2. Wash the beets: Rinse the beets under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently scrub the surface with a vegetable brush if needed.

3. Remove the greens: Use a sharp knife to cut off the beet greens, leaving about one inch of stem attached to the beetroot. These greens can be saved and used for other recipes if desired.

4. Boil the beets: Fill a large pot with water, bring it to a boil, then add the beets. The boiling time varies depending on the size of your beets—small ones may take 25-30 minutes, while larger ones may take up to an hour. They should be easily pierced with a fork when fully cooked.

5. Cool the beets: Once boiled, use a slotted spoon to remove the beets from the pot and place them in a bowl of ice water for several minutes to cool down quickly.

6. Peel the beets: After they have cooled, gently rub off the skin using your fingers or a paper towel.

7. Slice or dice (optional): Depending on how you plan to use your frozen beets later, you may want to slice or dice them before freezing.

8. Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.

9. Arrange the beets: Spread out your peeled (and sliced or diced) beets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

10. Pre-freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the beets are mostly frozen. This step prevents them from sticking together when stored in a container or freezer bag.

11. Pack the beets: Transfer the pre-frozen beets to an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

12. Store and label: Place the container or bag in the freezer, and don’t forget to label it with the date and contents. Frozen beets can last for up to one year if properly stored.

When you’re ready to use your frozen beets, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator before adding them to your favorite recipes. Enjoy!