Braving beetroot

I know I am in the minority but I do actually quite like beetroot. I have never been brave enough to buy uncooked beetroot and deal with the flood of purple, staining juice which cookbooks always warn you about.

Anyway I thought it was about time I faced my fears and I bought some at the farmers market this weekend. After peeling the skin off I discovered strange circular marks - probably to do with the way I cut it rather than anything to do with the beetroot.

My apple and beetroot slaw was very tasty, and now I'm off to wash my hands. Again...