For a timesaving tip choose small beets to boil. Cut stem off about 1 inch from the top of the beet and wash well. Bring lightly salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling place whole beets with cut stem into boiling water. Simmer for about 15 minutes, depending on the size of the beets. Insert the tip of a sharp knife into the beet. Remove while still a little crisp in the center. Let beets sit in a colander to cool before peeling. Or if you want to serve hot beets, pierce with a fork to hold beet steady and peel with a sharp paring knife.