Colourful beetroot seen as alternative to sprouts

The place of the humble sprout at the heart of the traditional Christmas meal could be under threat from an unexpected rival – heritage beetroot.

By The Newsroom

Published 15th Dec 2010, 12:12 BST

Updated 15th Dec 2010, 12:13 BST

A range of unusually coloured beets has been unveiled by one supermarket chain just in time for Christmas and as a change from the familiar deep red beetroot developed in the 16th century.

Three varieties of heritage beetroot – golden, white and chioggia – went on sale in Sainsbury's yesterday.

The firm says the golden variety has a delicate and sweet taste, white is extra sweet, while the seasonal favourite, chioggia, has a subtle aroma.

The varieties were seen as a delicacy more than 100 years ago in the UK but remain popular in Spain and the Middle East today.

And the vegetables could offer solace to the army of diners left distraught by the taste of sprouts.

Sainsbury's yesterday said they would be selling the "taste the difference heritage beetroot" for 2 per bunch.

Spain