Smashed Beets with Goat Cheese & Hot Honey

1. Position racks in upper and lower thirds of oven: preheat to 425°F.

2. Toss beets, oil, salt and pepper together in a large broiler-safe pot. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer in the pot. Combine water and vinegar in a measuring cup; pour over the beets. Cover and bake on the lower rack, flipping the beets once, until very tender, 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Remove from the oven and turn the broiler to High.

   

3. Arrange the beets in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Use a mason jar to firmly press each beet slice until flattened but still intact. Sprinkle with goat cheese. Broil on the upper rack until the beets are crisped on the edges and the cheese is browned, about 4 minutes. Drizzle with hot honey and sprinkle with thyme.

   

Tip:

To make your own hot honey, heat 1/4 cup honey and 1 tsp. crushed red pepper in a small skillet over medium heat until the honey is loosened and bubbles form on the edges. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp. cider vinegar.