Recipe: Prepare Scandinavian beetroot carpaccio at home
Originating from the Nordic regions, Beetroot Carpaccio offers a vegetarian take on the classic Italian dish traditionally made with thinly sliced raw meat. This Scandinavian version celebrates the beetroot's earthy sweetness, alongside a mix of textures and flavors. It's both a feast for the palate and the eyes, making it perfect for special occasions or to impress guests. Ready to start cooking?
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, collect four large beetroots, one tablespoon of olive oil, and two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. You'll also need half a cup of roasted walnuts, one cup of arugula leaves, and half a cup of goat cheese (optional for vegans), with salt and pepper for seasoning. For garnish, use fresh dill and microgreens.
Prepare the beetroots
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the beetroots thoroughly and pat them dry. Wrap each beetroot in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray. Roast in the oven for about one hour or until they are tender all through. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool before peeling off their skins.
Slice and season
After cooling, use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to cut the beetroots into very thin slices. Arrange these slices on a platter in an overlapping pattern to form a visually appealing base. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over them evenly. Season with salt and pepper according to taste, ensuring each slice is delicately coated for flavor.
Add toppings
Scatter roasted walnuts over the beet slices for added crunch. If using, crumble goat cheese on top for richness; vegans can skip this. Lastly, add arugula leaves sparingly for a fresh contrast. This step introduces textures and flavors - crunchy walnuts, optional creamy goat cheese, and peppery arugula, enhancing the dish's complexity and appeal without altering its core ingredients.
Garnish and serve
Garnish your beetroot carpaccio with fresh dill and microgreens just before serving for an elegant touch. This not only brings a splash of color but also introduces a variety of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the earthy tones of the beets. It showcases how simple ingredients can create a dish that's visually stunning and rich in taste, all without meat or eggs.
