Chard is a variety of the beetroot that has been grown for its large leaves instead of their roots. Similarities of chard and spinach leaves are not coincidental as the two plants are distant relatives. The bright colours of some chard stalks stem from the same pigments that colour the beetroots. These pigments are water-soluble and can therefore colour the cooking water the same way beetroots do. But with or without colouring effect, our chard recipes are tasty either way.