Slow Cooker Harvard Beets

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#22261

Sweet, tangy, and super easy, these Harvard beets are made right in your crock pot. Perfect hot or cold.

serves/makes:

ready in:
2-5 hrs

ingredients

1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 cans (16 ounce size) whole beets, drained

directions

Combine the sugar and flour in a bowl. Whisk in the water and vinegar, stirring until the sugar and flour have dissolved.

Place the beets in the crock pot. Pour the sugar liquid over the beets. Stir the beets gently to coat them in the liquid.

Cover the crock pot and cook on high heat for 2-3 hours until the beets are heated through and the liquid has thickened. Serve the Harvard beets hot or cold.

crock pot notes

Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.

recipe tips

Try adding spices like cinnamon or cloves for a more complex flavor.

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Try using a mix of different colored beets for a visually appealing dish.

For a more savory twist, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the sugar liquid mixture.

common recipe questions

What makes Harvard beets different from regular beets?

Harvard beets are prepared in a sweet and tangy sauce made from sugar, flour, water, and vinegar, giving them a unique flavor and texture. They are sweeter than pickled beets and tangier than glazed beets.

Can I use fresh beets instead of canned beets?

You can use fresh beets for this recipe. Simply cook and peel the beets before adding them to the crock pot.

What type of vinegar can I use for Harvard beets?

White vinegar is traditionally used for Harvard beets, but you can experiment with different types like apple cider vinegar.

How long can I keep Harvard beets in the fridge?

Harvard beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated before serving.

Can I freeze Harvard beets?

While technically you can freeze Harvard beets, the texture of the beets will be softer and the sauce will not be as syrupy upon thawing. It's best to enjoy them fresh.

What can I serve with Harvard beets?

Harvard beets pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a side dish for a holiday meal.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is not thickening to the right consistency, you can create a slurry of cornstarch and water and add it to the crock pot to help thicken the sauce.

tools needed

Small Mixing Bowl: For combining the sugar and flour before whisking in the water and vinegar to create the sweet and tangy dressing for the beets.

Whisk: For making sure the sugar and flour are dissolved into the liquid.

Crock Pot: Needed to slow cook the beets in the sweet and tangy dressing until they are heated through and the liquid has thickened.

Spatula or Spoon: For gently stirring the beets in the crock pot to make sure they are evenly coated in the sugar dressing.

Can Opener: Required to open the cans of whole beets for this recipe.

what goes with it?

Grilled Pork Chops: Serve these Harvard beets alongside some juicy grilled pork chops for a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of the beets will complement the savory richness of the pork.

Arugula Salad: Whip up a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to pair with these Harvard beets. The peppery arugula and bright lemon will add a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Goat Cheese Crostini: Top some crunchy crostini with creamy goat cheese and serve them with these Harvard beets for a delightful, bite-sized appetizer that will impress your guests.