Beets are a beloved vegetable, but cutting them can be a messy endeavor, leaving your hands stained with their vibrant red juice. Fortunately, there are several tricks to help you cut beets without turning your hands into a canvas of red stains:
- Gloves: Wearing kitchen gloves is the most straightforward solution. Gloves act as a barrier, preventing the beet juice from coming into contact with your skin. Keep in mind that the gloves themselves may become stained, so use a pair that you don’t mind discoloring. Be cautious when removing the gloves, as touching them with bare hands could still transfer some beet juice.
- Olive Oil: Before you begin cutting beets, apply a generous amount of olive oil to your hands. Ensure that you cover your entire hand surface, creating a protective layer. This prevents the beet juice from staining your skin. However, be mindful that the oil can make the beets more slippery, so exercise caution while handling them.
If your hands are already stained:
- Lemon Juice: To remove beet stains from your hands, try applying some lemon juice. Lemon juice has natural bleaching properties that can help break down and remove the beet pigment. Simply rub a bit of lemon juice on your stained hands, and the beet stains should gradually fade away. Keep in mind that lemon juice may not be suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin, as it can be drying.
- Potato: Another method to remove beet stains is by using a potato. Under running water, rub your hands with a cut potato. The potato will absorb the beet juice, gradually lifting the stains. This method is gentle on the skin and works well for those with sensitive hands.
With these tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of beets without the worry of red-stained hands. Whether you choose to prevent the stains with gloves or oil or remove them with lemon juice or a potato, your beet-cutting experience can be much cleaner and more enjoyable.