Beets with Cloves and Cinnamon
If you use beet juice to write your love letters, the object of your affection will find you irresistible. (Irish folk belief)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb small beets
- Salted water to cover
- Dash of cloves
- Dash of cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter or margarine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Wash the beets and cut off the stalks; do not remove the skins. Drop into a pan of boiling, salted water and cook until tender - about 45 minutes to 1 hour. If the skin comes off easily, they are done. Peel the beets and discard the cooking water.
Return the beets to the saucepan and toss for a few minutes with the cloves, cinnamon, and butter. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Variations:
Beets are a versatile vegetable, and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Instead of cloves and cinnamon, you can try parsley and chives. For a non-traditional variation, pineapples, orange slices, and brown sugar can be added for a sweeter dish - very appropriate for esbats and sun celebrations.
- from Celtic Folklore Cooking (Asala)

