Chioggia is an Italian coastal town situated on a little island at the southern entrance to the Venetian lagoon, in the Po plain. It's like a miniature replica of Venice, with several canals. It's here that this wonderful beet originated, which is highly sought after for its striking colors. When its round root is cut, it reveals superb rings, alternating white and deep pink. After cooking, the flesh turns completely pale pink, which is why it is preferred in its raw form. It matures very early and has a mild flavor, and so requires less cooking time than most varieties of beet.