Beet greens

Beta vulgaris

leaf · vegetable

Beet's own foliage: the same species as chard, and the same profile — nitrates, magnesium and vitamin K1.

Origin

Mediterranean coastlines

Season (United States)

June to October · grows in your region

Preparation

Separate the stalks from the leaves before cooking: the stalks need a few minutes more. It grows at ground level and catches the splashes of watering: washing it leaf by leaf, in plenty of water, beats a quick rinse of the whole bunch. Its oxalates leach into water: boiling it and throwing the water out takes a good share with it.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitrates · Vitamin K1 · Magnesium · Potassium · ChlorophyllIn small amounts, not counted Betalains · Betaine · Vitamin C · Folates (B9) · Plant ironWhat slows things down Oxalates

Did you know?

Chard and beet are one single species, bred on one side for its leaf, on the other for its root.