Carrots

Carrots are a versatile root vegetable that can be enjoyed raw or cooked. They are a staple in many dishes, from soups and stews to salads and stir-fries. Depending on how they were grown and stored, carrots can range from bland to naturally sweet.

Nutrition

Half a cup of grated carrot (~1 medium carrot) provides:

✓ 70% of the RDA for beta-carotene (which the body converts into Vitamin A)
✓ Respectable amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Potassium

Carrots support vision, strengthen bones and teeth, boost the immune system, and fight free radicals. However, eating too many (more than two per day, every day) can temporarily turn your skin orange due to high carotenoid intake.

Health Benefits

Interestingly, cooked carrots are more nutritious than raw. The cooking process breaks down cellular walls, making beta-carotene more bioavailable to the body. So, while raw carrots are a great snack, incorporating them into cooked meals maximizes their nutritional benefits.

How to Prepare

1. Wash and dry carrots before cutting.
2. If grating, cut off the tip.
3. If slicing or dicing, remove both ends and proceed with your preferred cut.
   
   Tip: Carrot juice stains, so place them on baking paper for easy cleanup.
   
   

How to Store

Supermarket carrots: Keep them in their original packaging (a carton base with a film cover), as they prefer cold and moisture.

Farmers’ market carrots: Store them in a plastic bag with kitchen paper to absorb excess moisture. Do not leave them uncovered, or they will dry out and turn soft.

Carrots last up to 2–3 weeks in the fridge when stored properly.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, but it’s often more trouble than it’s worth.

Best option for fresh use: Peel and cut into sticks or grate—you’ll eat them faster when they’re ready to grab from the fridge.
If freezing: Peel, dice, and store in a freezer bag or container. They last 4–6 months in the freezer but are only good for cooking afterward.

Pre-packaged frozen carrots are also available and work well for soups, stews, and stir-fries.

Fun Fact

Baby carrots are NOT naturally small - they are carved from full-size carrots using industrial equipment. Because they are pre-cut and washed, they can be more susceptible to contamination, especially if not stored properly.

What Do We Use?

At DAREBEETS, we keep fresh carrots in the fridge and grate or chop them in advance to make them easier to use.