Ep 16. Beet It

In the Good Eats season 6 episode 16, titled "Beet It," host Alton Brown delves into the world of beets, a root vegetable that is often underrated and overlooked in cooking. Brown explores the history of beets and their use in culinary traditions around the world. He also shares tips on selecting and preparing fresh beets for cooking.

Throughout the episode, Brown shows viewers how to use beets in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to stews and even dessert. He demonstrates techniques for roasting, boiling, and pickling beets, as well as using them for natural food coloring.

Brown also highlights some of the nutritional benefits of beets, which are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. He explores the science behind the vibrant color of beets and their potential health benefits for cardiovascular health and increasing stamina.

One of the standout segments of the episode showcases Brown's method for making beet kvass, a fermented drink that is popular in Russia and other eastern European countries. Brown shows viewers how to make a simple version of the drink using beets, water, and salt, and explains the fermentation process that creates the unique flavor.

Another segment focuses on using beets as a natural food coloring. Brown shows viewers how to extract the color from beets to make a vibrant red dye, which can be used to color everything from cakes and cookies to clothing and textiles. He also shares some of the history behind the use of natural dyes in various cultures around the world.

Throughout the episode, Brown keeps the mood light and entertaining with his trademark humor and quirky experiments. In one memorable moment, he tests the theory that beets can be used to predict the weather by hanging a beet from a string and observing its movements.

Overall, "Beet It" is a fascinating and informative episode that showcases the versatility and potential of this often-underestimated root vegetable. With Brown's guidance, viewers are sure to come away with a renewed appreciation for the humble beet and plenty of ideas for incorporating it into their own cooking.