Varieties

Beets have succulent green leaves with red or golden veins, depending on the variety. Several species are cultivated, but table beets are the common garden variety. The vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues are due to betalains (nitrogen-containing pigments). Betacyanin is the pigment in red and violet beets, and betaxanthin gives gold and orange beets their lively color. These pigments are water soluble and leak, or “bleed,” when beets are cooked, bruised, or pierced.