Last Beets from the Garden

We harvested our last "Winterkeeper" beets from the garden this week.  It seems timely as the Spring Equinox is upon us and we are hoping to say goodbye to old man winter.   The beets were sliced into dials and baked in the oven, covered and with a little orange juice, until tender.  While they were baking we made a reduction of the beet trimmings by covering with one cup of water and simmering for 30 minutes.  Drain the beets and send to the compost.  Add to your liquid 1 Tablespoon of Balsamic Vinegar and render down further until you have 1/4 cup.  Add maple syrup to taste leaving on the heat for another 5 minutes until you have your beet syrup or reduction.  Serve over baked beets with a seasonal side salad.  The colour is intense crimson and the flavour divine.