Here’s a recipe for a Beetroot Vegetable Drink and Beetroot Halwa, along with some information on the health benefits of beetroot:

Beetroot Vegetable Drink:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cups cold water
• Ice cubes (optional)
• Honey or agave syrup for sweetness (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine chopped beetroots, carrots, cucumber, apple, and ginger.
2. Add cold water and blend until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice.
4. Add fresh lemon juice and sweeten with honey or agave syrup if desired.
5. Serve over ice cubes for a refreshing beetroot vegetable drink.

Beetroot Halwa:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated beetroot
• 1 cup full-fat milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• Chopped nuts for garnish (almonds, cashews, pistachios)

Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add grated beetroot and sauté until it becomes soft and the raw smell disappears.
2. Add milk and simmer until the beetroot is cooked and the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in sugar and continue cooking until the halwa reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency.
4. Add cardamom powder and mix well.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Health Benefits of Beetroot:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Beetroot is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C.
2. Antioxidant Properties: Beetroot contains antioxidants like betalains, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
3. Heart Health: The nitrates in beetroot may help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.
4. Anti-Inflammatory: The compounds in beetroot have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
5. Digestive Health: The fiber content in beetroot supports digestive health and may help prevent constipation.
6. Detoxification: Beetroot contains compounds that support liver function and aid in detoxification processes.
7. Athletic Performance: Some studies suggest that the nitrates in beetroot may enhance athletic performance by improving oxygen utilization in muscles.
8. Cognitive Function: Beetroot may have positive effects on cognitive function due to increased blood flow to the brain.