Do I have to peel the beets?
Nope. If you are using fresh, firm beets, a good scrub is usually enough. That said, beets can be gritty, and older beets can have tougher skins. If the skins look gnarly, or you want the cleanest, smoothest flavor, go ahead and peel.
Can I make beet juice without a juicer?
Yes. Blend chopped beets with water, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. You will get great flavor with a little more texture than juiced.
Why is my beet juice foamy or separated?
Totally normal, especially with a blender. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir, or skim foam if you want it extra smooth.
How do I make it less earthy?
Add more lemon, a small apple, or a carrot. A pinch of salt also helps round out the flavor in a sneaky, chef-y way.
Will it stain my cutting board, hands, or towels?
Yes, beet juice is committed. Use a non-porous board if you can, and consider gloves if you hate pink fingertips. For counters and boards, scrub with baking soda and a little lemon juice, then rinse. For fabric, rinse with cold water first and do not use heat until the stain lifts (heat sets it).
What is the difference between using a sieve and cheesecloth?
Fine-mesh sieve gives you juice with a little pulp (still very drinkable). Cheesecloth gives you a clearer, smoother juice with less grit.
Why did my pee turn pink?
Beets can cause harmless pink or red urine or stool for some people (it is called beeturia). It can look dramatic, but it is usually nothing to worry about.
