Carrots are root vegetables that were first grown in Afghanistan around 900 AD. Orange may be their best-known color, but they also come in other hues, including purple, yellow, red, and white. Early carrots were purple or yellow. Orange carrots were developed in Central Europe around the 15th or 16th century.
This popular and versatile veggie may taste slightly different depending on the color, size, and where its grown. The sugar in carrots gives them a slightly sweet flavor, but they can taste earthy or bitter.
You probably know carrots are good for your eyes. But they also are good for your heart, your weight, and even your teeth. (Photo Credit: Moment RF/Getty s)
Organic carrots are grown using natural fertilizers and are less likely to have pesticide residues because theyâre protected against pests and diseases using mechanical and biological methods.
On the other hand, nonorganic carrots are conventionally grown and treated with pesticides to prevent pest infestations and diseases, potentially leaving behind residues of these chemicals.
Carrots come in several varieties. You can tell them apart by the shape, color, and length of the root, which is the part most people eat. The most common varieties include:
Is it okay to eat carrots every day? Eating carrots in moderation is good for your health. Eating carrots in excess, however, can cause a condition called carotenemia. This refers to yellowish discoloration of the skin because of the deposition of a substance called beta-carotene that is present in carrots.
How to Store Carrots
Fresh, whole carrots can be kept fresh for up to 2 weeks in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. If the leafy green tops are still attached, trim those first. Then, store them in a plastic bag with holes in it.
How to Use Carrots
Carrots are a universal food item, most popularly grown and eaten in China, followed by the U.S. They can be a part of various popular diets, such as vegan, keto, and paleo. They also feature as a main ingredient in cuisines from around the world, including gajar ka halwa (India), morkovcha (Korea), and carrot cake (U.S.).
To prepare carrots, wash them thoroughly in water and scrub off any dirt. You can peel them with a vegetable peeler or knife if youd like, but you dont have to.
From there, you might slice them into sticks and eat them with hummus or a yogurt-based dip. If you dont like crunchy carrots, you can steam, boil, or roast them and serve them as a side dish. They also work well in savory dishes such as beef stew, chicken pot pie, and stir-fry.
Carrot root
Carrot roots are the actual carrots people eat. They are high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carotenoids, and dietary fiber. You can have them raw or cooked, as a snack, side dish, or juice.
Carrot top
The carrot top is the area of the carrot that has leaves. Carrot tops are a nutritious and spicy ingredient in salads like panzanella (as a substitute for parsley) or sauces like chimichurri.
Glazed carrots
Glazed carrots are a tasty and easy-to-prepare side dish. Follow these steps:
- Using clean hands, wash, peel, and cut 1 pound of carrots into 1-inch pieces.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of margarine in a pan on low heat and add the carrots. Stir them until theyre coated.
- Add a cup of water, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the carrots. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the carrots are tender.
- Drain the water, then add 2 teaspoons of sugar to the carrots.
- Cover your pan and shake it on the burner for 1 minute.Â
- Finally, uncover and cook for 1 more minute until the carrots look glazed, but not brown.
How long to boil carrots
Itâs best to cook carrots for the shortest time possible to preserve their nutritional value. Boiling, in particular, may lower some of the antioxidant activity in carrots and nutrients like vitamin C. But it makes it easier for the body to absorb the carotene in them.Â
You can boil carrots for 5-10 minutes until tender.
What Happens When You Start Eating Carrots Everyday
FAQ
How many baby carrots should I eat a day?
Are baby carrots as healthy as regular carrots?
Is it healthy to eat raw baby carrots?
Are baby carrots good for gut health?
How many baby carrots should you eat a day?
One ½ cup serving of baby carrots fulfills Health Canada’s recommendation of one orange vegetable daily. Besides being a healthy choice that are completely acceptable as part of a healthy diet for anyone with diabetes or looking to lose weight, and since they come pre-washed, they are convenient for quick snacks on the go.
How often should carrots be eaten?
According to several international recommendations, people should eat at around 400 grams os vegetables a day, so as to guarantee a healthy amount of vitamins, minerals and fibre. However, just thinking only about carrots, we should consider that this vegetable is rich in carotenoids and eating more than recommended is not a good ideia, due to the toxicity caused by it. Because of it, eating one a day is more than enough.
Are baby carrots good for You?
Livestrong explains that baby carrots contain 20 percent less Vitamin A than regular carrots, but still provide high levels of the nutrient. Vitamin A helps maintain immunity, organ function and healthy vision, the outlet notes, and eating carrots is one of the best ways to boost your intake of this vitamin.
Are baby carrots bad for You?
They’re actually bad in every way. Ever since baby carrots were “invented” in the 1980s, marketers have conned us into believing that they’re the ultimate healthy snack, a convenient way to enjoy veggies on the go. Sure, they may be snackable and convenient, but they’re definitely not what you think they are.