Beetroot: Storage

When your beets arrive, separate the leaves or they’ll draw up water, softening the roots. Unless they’re really manky, remove the stalks and leaves, wash them well in cold water, spin or shake dry and store in the fridge in a plastic box or bag lined with kitchen paper. When they’re small and young, they’re delicious raw in salads; if slightly older, sweat them gently in butter with a little garlic, as you would spinach. For the best shelf life, leave the roots muddy and store in a paper bag in the fridge or somewhere cool and dark – they’ll keep for several weeks.