Red Beet Food Coloring

This homemade food coloring derives its color from beets.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium beetroots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 cup (250 ml) water
  • 3 tablespoons white granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Red Beet Food Coloring

Photo: silar / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Procedure

  1. Blend beets and water in a food processor.
  2. Using a cheesecloth, strain the purée into a bowl to extract the juice.
  3. Pour the juice into a saucepan and add sugar.
  4. Turn the heat to medium-high, and stir to dissolve the sugar.
  5. Skim off and discard any foam that collects at the surface of the liquid.
  6. Simmer until the liquid reduces to a single-thread consistency.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
  8. Cool slightly, then pour into an airtight jar and cool completely.

Notes, tips, and variations

  • The food coloring can be stored in refrigerator for up to three months.
  • To use in frostings, add the food coloring, ¼ teaspoon at a time, mixing after each addition.

References