Harvard Beets Dish

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 medium-sized beets (approximately 2 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 small bunch of fresh thyme (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (including 25 minutes of roasting time)
• Cooking Time: 1 hour (beets need to be cooked until tender)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty - requires attention to roasting and timing)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Scrub the beets clean and remove the tops.
3. In a baking dish, arrange the beets and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper and add the brown sugar.
5. If using, add the fresh thyme sprigs.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and roast for about 1 hour, or until the beets are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
8. Peel the beets and cut into quarters or slices.
9. In a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar with a few sprigs of thyme (if desired) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Arrange the beets on a serving plate or in a bowl and drizzle with the balsamic vinegar mixture.

Nutritional Information:

(Based on the given ingredients)

• Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving (without considering the exact weight of each ingredient)
• Carbohydrates, Fats, and Protein: Depends on the exact weight of the ingredients used

Dish Characteristics:

• The dish combines the sweet and sour flavors of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar with the earthy taste of roasted beets.
• The dish is both hearty and healthy, making it a perfect side dish for meat or poultry.
• The fresh thyme adds a pleasant aroma and flavor note.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of flavors was unexpected but delightful!"
2. "The beets were cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavor."
3. "This dish was a great complement to a grilled chicken dinner."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to scrub the beets clean to remove any dirt or impurities.
• Roasting times may vary depending on the size of the beets. Check for doneness after about an hour.
• Adding fresh thyme is optional, but it enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
• Adjust the vinegar mixture according to your preference for a more or less acidic taste.