How To Air Fry Beets?

To air fry beets, wash, peel, and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes or wedges, then toss with a little oil and your favorite seasonings.

Cook them in your air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until they are tender-crisp.

TL;DR: Air frying beets transforms them into a delicious side dish.
Just prepare your beets by washing, peeling, and cutting them into even pieces.
Toss them lightly with oil and your chosen spices for maximum flavor.
Cook them in your air fryer around 375°F (190°C) for about 15-25 minutes.
Remember to shake the basket frequently to ensure even cooking and perfect tenderness.

How To Air Fry Beets?

Air frying beets is a simple way to create a wonderfully tender and slightly caramelized side dish that everyone will love.

You can enjoy their earthy sweetness with minimal effort and cleanup, making them a fantastic addition to any meal.

Why Air Fry Beets? It’s a Game Changer!

Have you ever struggled with roasting beets, waiting ages for them to soften?

Air frying changes that experience entirely. It uses hot circulating air, much like a tiny convection oven, to cook your beets quickly and evenly.

This method often yields a delicious texture—crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully tender within. It’s a great way to bring out their natural sweetness without excessive oil.

Choosing Your Beets Wisely

Selecting the right beets is the first step toward air-fried perfection.

Look for beets that feel firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, unblemished skin. Smaller to medium-sized beets often cook more evenly and tend to be sweeter.

If they come with greens attached, make sure those are fresh and vibrant; you can even save them for another dish!

Prepping Your Beets for the Air Fryer

Preparing beets might seem a little messy, but it’s straightforward. You will be glad you took the time for this step.

A few simple tools make the job much easier, like a good vegetable peeler and a sturdy cutting board.

Washing and Peeling Beets

Start by giving your beets a good wash under cool running water to remove any dirt. Don’t worry about scrubbing too hard yet.

Many home cooks prefer to peel beets after they are cooked, but for air frying, peeling them beforehand is best for better texture.

Simply use a vegetable peeler or a paring knife to remove the outer skin. Be careful, as beet juice can stain your hands and cutting board!

Cutting Beets: Cubes or Wedges?

How you cut your beets matters for cooking time and texture. We found that 1/2-inch cubes or wedges work wonderfully in the air fryer.

Uniform pieces are key; this helps them cook at the same rate, preventing some from being burnt while others are still hard.

You can also try thin slices or matchsticks for a faster, crispier result, but cubes or wedges give you that satisfying tender bite.

Seasoning Your Air Fried Beets

Seasoning truly transforms the humble beet. A good starting point is always a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

For something a little different, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika. Many experts say that rosemary or thyme complement beets beautifully.

A touch of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking can also brighten the flavors.

Air Frying Beets: Step-by-Step Guidance

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for perfectly air-fried beets every time. It’s a simple process, but paying attention to each detail makes a difference.

Prepare Your Beets: Wash, peel, and cut your beets into even 1/2-inch pieces. Remember, consistency in size means consistent cooking.
Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a medium bowl, toss the cut beets with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs or spices. Mix well to coat every piece.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: If your air fryer has a preheat function, set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking from the start.
Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned beets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd it! Cook in batches if you have a lot of beets.
Air Fry: Cook for 15-25 minutes, or until the beets are tender and slightly caramelized. You will want to check them periodically.
Shake the Basket: This is important! Shake the air fryer basket every 5-7 minutes to promote even browning and cooking. This prevents sticking as well.
Check for Doneness: Pierce a beet with a fork; it should go in easily with slight resistance. If not, cook for a few more minutes.

Temperature and Time Guide for Beets

Air fryer models can vary, but this table provides a general guide for air frying beets. Your specific appliance might cook a little faster or slower.

Always keep an eye on your beets, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to prevent them from drying out or burning.

Beet Cut	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
1/2-inch Cubes	375°F (190°C)	18-25 minutes	Shake basket every 5-7 min
1/2-inch Wedges	375°F (190°C)	20-28 minutes	Shake basket every 5-7 min
Thin Slices	375°F (190°C)	12-18 minutes	Great for crispier results

Shake It Up! Important for Even Cooking

Seriously, shaking the basket isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a non-negotiable step for great air-fried beets.

This simple action redistributes the beet pieces, allowing the hot air to reach all surfaces equally. It also prevents certain pieces from burning while others stay undercooked.

Make it a habit to give that basket a good shake every 5 to 7 minutes.

Signs Your Beets Are Ready

You’ll know your air-fried beets are done when they are fork-tender and have a lovely, slightly browned exterior.

They should feel soft when pierced but still hold their shape. The edges might have a nice, sweet caramelization, which is exactly what you want.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with simple cooking methods, sometimes things go a little awry. Don’t worry, these tips can help you get back on track.

Beets Are Too Hard

If your beets are still too firm after the recommended cooking time, they just need a little more time. This often happens if the pieces were cut too large or the air fryer basket was overcrowded.

Put them back in the air fryer for another 3-5 minutes, then check again. A little extra cooking is usually all that’s needed.

Beets Are Burning

Burning usually points to one of two things: too high a temperature or not shaking the basket enough. Research often connects overcrowding with uneven browning and burning (Cornell University).

Try lowering the temperature slightly next time or ensure you’re shaking the basket frequently. A quick spray of oil can also help if they are drying out.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fried Beets

Air-fried beets are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty vegetarian meal.

You can also toss them into salads for a boost of color and flavor, or mash them slightly with a touch of butter and herbs for a unique side.

Some people love them with a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy counterpoint.

Health Benefits of Beets

Beets are not just tasty; they are also packed with goodness for your body. We found that they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (Mayo Clinic).

They are known for their potential to help with blood pressure, improve athletic performance, and support liver health. Enjoying them air-fried means you keep many of these beneficial compounds intact.

A Quick Checklist for Perfect Air Fried Beets

Are your beets uniformly cut?
Did you toss them well with oil and seasoning?
Is your air fryer preheated?
Did you avoid overcrowding the basket?
Are you shaking the basket frequently during cooking?

Conclusion

Air frying beets is a remarkably simple and rewarding cooking method that brings out the best in this root vegetable. From prepping them carefully to understanding the ideal cooking times, you now have all the tools.

With their vibrant color and earthy-sweet flavor, air-fried beets are a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Go ahead and give them a try; you might just find your new favorite side dish!

Can I air fry raw whole beets?

While you can air fry small whole beets, it will take significantly longer than cut pieces, often 40-60 minutes or more. For efficiency and even cooking, cutting them into pieces is generally recommended.

Do I need to peel beets before air frying?

Peeling beets before air frying is highly recommended. The skin can become tough and chewy during the process, impacting the overall texture. Peeling ensures a tender and pleasant eating experience.

Can I air fry frozen beets?

Yes, you can air fry frozen beets, but they might need a slightly longer cooking time, around 20-30 minutes, and may not achieve the same crispness as fresh beets. Make sure to toss them well with oil and seasonings.

What are good seasonings for air-fried beets?

Beyond salt and pepper, great seasonings for air-fried beets include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of cumin. A drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking is also delicious.

How do I prevent my air-fried beets from sticking to the basket?

To prevent sticking, ensure you toss the beets thoroughly with oil before placing them in the basket. Also, arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding, and remember to shake the basket frequently during cooking.

How To Air Fry Beets?