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Grilled Beets With Moroccan Dressing: A Culinary Adventure

I’ll never forget the first time I truly appreciated beets. It wasn’t the pickled variety my grandmother served with every holiday dinner (sorry, Grandma!), but rather a vibrant, earthy dish I encountered at a small Moroccan restaurant tucked away on a bustling street in Marrakech. The beets, grilled to tender perfection and tossed in a fragrant, tangy dressing, were a revelation. That simple salad sparked a lifelong fascination with the versatility of beets and the magic of Moroccan flavors. Now, I’m thrilled to share my version of that memorable dish, bringing the essence of Moroccan sunshine to your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Type: Vegan

Ingredients

4 beets, raw and unpeeled
Olive oil, for brushing
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1⁄4 teaspoon ground cumin
1⁄4 teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon vinegar or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pinch sugar
Salt, to taste
Ground cayenne pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

Grill (charcoal or gas)
Small bowl
Tongs
Knife
Cutting board

Instructions

Prepare your grill. If using a charcoal grill, build a medium-low fire. For a gas grill, preheat to medium-low. The key here is a gentle, sustained heat that will allow the beets to cook through without burning on the outside.
Brush the beets generously with olive oil. This will help them caramelize beautifully on the grill and prevent them from drying out.
Place the oiled beets directly over the medium-low coals or on the grill grates.
Cook the raw beets slowly over the heat until they are easily pierced with a fork or skewer. This usually takes 1 to 1 1/2 hours, depending on the size of the beets and the consistency of the heat. Turn the beets occasionally to ensure even cooking. Don’t rush this step; patience is key to perfectly tender beets.
Once the beets are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.
While the beets are cooling, prepare the Moroccan dressing. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, chopped tomato, chopped fresh cilantro, ground cumin, curry powder, vinegar (or lemon juice), and olive oil.
Once the beets are cool enough to handle, peel them. The skins should slip off fairly easily. If not, you can use a paring knife to carefully remove them.
Cut the peeled beets into thick slices.
Toss the sliced beets with the Moroccan dressing, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Taste the beets for seasoning and adjust with salt, ground cayenne pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. The dressing should be a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Serve the grilled beets warm or at room temperature.

Note: Canned beets can be substituted. Either skip steps 1-4, or place beets on the grill for only about 5 minutes to pick up some of the smoky goodness. Sliced beets should probably not be put on the grill unless you line it with some aluminum foil.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For even cooking, select beets that are similar in size.
To avoid staining your hands, wear gloves when peeling and slicing the beets, or rub your hands with lemon juice afterward.
Make-ahead tip: You can grill the beets a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing separately and toss with the beets just before serving.
If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the beets in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), wrap the oiled beets in foil, and roast for about an hour, or until tender.
To add a touch of sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dressing.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled beets as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian entrees. They also make a delicious addition to salads or grain bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of Greek yogurt (if not vegan).

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beets are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; reheating can cause them to become mushy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	133 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	10.4g	15%
Saturated Fat	1.4g	7%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	42.3mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	9.6g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1.9g	7%
Sugars	6g	N/A
Protein	1.6g	3%

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the dressing for extra heat.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley, mint, or dill in place of or in addition to the cilantro.
Citrus boost: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dressing for a brighter flavor.
Nutty twist: Sprinkle the beets with toasted almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the earthy beets beautifully.
Vinegar options: Try using apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked beets for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked beets to save time. However, grilling them briefly will add a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

Q: What is the best way to peel beets?
A: The easiest way to peel beets is after they have been cooked. Once they are cool enough to handle, the skins should slip off easily with your fingers.

Q: Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors meld together even more beautifully over time.

Q: What if I don’t have curry powder?
A: If you don’t have curry powder, you can substitute a blend of ground coriander, turmeric, ginger, and cumin.

Q: Can I freeze leftover grilled beets?
A: Freezing cooked beets can alter their texture, making them softer. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerate leftovers for a few days.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Grilled Beets with Moroccan Dressing is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The earthy sweetness of the beets, the smoky char from the grill, and the vibrant tang of the Moroccan dressing create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Perhaps pair it with a grilled lamb tagine or a refreshing mint tea for a truly authentic Moroccan feast!

Grilled Beets With Moroccan Dressing Recipe