This Harvard beets recipe came from my Grandma and makes for a sweet and tangy treat. I have tried other recipes, but none are as flavorful as hers. Combine sugar, cornstarch, vinegar, and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and cook for 5 minutes. Add beets to the liquid, and simmer for 30 minutes over low heat.
In small saucepan, combine the ONE tablespoons cornstarch, the TWO tablespoons sugar and the THREE tablespoons vinegar (get it, 1-2-3?)! Stir. Drain the can of beets, reserving the liquid. Add 1/2 cup of the liquid to the pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring till thickened and bubbly. Add 1 tablespoons butter and salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the sugar, cornstarch, vinegar and water in a pot and boil 5 minutes, stirring often. Add the beets, toss to coat. If you are freezing: put one batch in a quart size bag or container, and make a note to add 2 tablespoons butter when reheating.
If they are bland, add the lemon juice. Dot the beet mixture with butter. Cover and bake for 1 hour. Tried this recipe? Let us know how it was! Overall, this is a very healthy vegetable recipe.