Beetroot 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe'

Scientific Name: Beta vulgaris 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe'

Flavour: 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe' beetroots have a sweet and earthy flavor with a mild hint of bitterness. They offer a delightful combination of sweetness and earthiness.

Growing Season: The growing season for 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe' beetroots typically starts in early spring, around March or April, and continues through the summer, usually ending in September or October.

Native Region: Beetroots, including the 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe' variety, are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, specifically in the area now known as the Middle East.

Traditional Recipe: Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium-sized 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe' beetroots, cooked, peeled, and sliced

  • 100g goat cheese, crumbled

  • A handful of mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or lettuce)

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or chives)

Instructions:

  1. In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced beetroots and mixed salad greens.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a dressing. Season with salt and black pepper.

  3. Drizzle the dressing over the beetroot and salad greens mixture, and gently toss to coat.

  4. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad.

  5. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh herbs.

  6. Serve the Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch.

Health Properties: 'Detroit 2 Crimson Globe' beetroots offer several health benefits. They are low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Beetroots are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as folate, vitamin C, and vitamin A), and minerals (such as potassium and iron). They may support heart health, help regulate blood pressure, promote digestion, and contribute to overall well-being.

Growing Technique:

Select a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Beetroots prefer loose and fertile soil.

Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and incorporating organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility and drainage.

Sow the seeds directly into the soil from early spring to mid-summer, following the spacing instructions on the seed packet. Usually, beetroots are spaced around 10-15cm apart, with rows spaced about 30-45cm apart.

Plant the seeds around 2-3cm deep in the soil.

Water the seeds gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Avoid overwatering to prevent rotting.

Thin out the seedlings when they reach a few centimeters in height, leaving the strongest plants to grow.

Keep the area around the beetroots free from weeds by regular weeding or mulching.

Harvest the beetroots when they reach the desired size, usually around 6-8cm in diameter. Gently loosen the soil around the roots and carefully lift them from the ground.

After harvesting, remove the foliage but leave about 2.5cm of the stem attached to prevent bleeding during cooking.

Store the beetroots in a cool, dark place or refrigerate them for longer storage.