Harvard beets are a classic American dish made with sliced or diced cooked beets. The beets are marinated in a sweet and sour sauce made with water, sugar, and vinegar. The bright color and tangy flavors make it a popular side dish. If you aren’t a fan of the earthy flavor of beets, you might enjoy this tasty version. These tasty beets make an excellent addition to a holiday dinner, and they’re easy enough to serve any day of the week.
Recipe Variations
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of a warm spice blend.
- Citrus: Add some fresh orange zest to the sauce mixture.
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs, such as dill, thyme, or chives.
- Beets: Use fresh roasted beets instead of canned. To roast fresh beets, wash them, cut off the tops and bottoms, toss with salt and pepper, and wrap in foil. Roast in a 375 F (190 C) F oven for 1 hour or until tender. Slip or rub the skins off and dice or slice for the recipe.
Easy Harvard Beets
Discover the deliciousness of Harvard beets with our easy recipe. Sweet and tangy, they’re the perfect side dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beets
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 cans (about 16 ounces each) sliced beets, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce: Combine the sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the vinegar and water and place over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until the mixture is thickened.
Make Harvard Beets: Add the sliced or diced beets and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 15 to 20 minutes or until nicely glazed with the sauce. Add the butter and add salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve and enjoy! 
