Cook Carrots Properly & Health Benefits
Cook Carrots Properly & Health Benefits is referring to learn about the ways of cooking the carrots in a professional way and the benefits behind this vegetable. You’ll learn here how to properly cook the carrots and add them in your favorite recipes.
When Shopping for Carrots
Look for firm, smooth carrots, and avoid carrots with cracks, soft or limp. Store airtight in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (maximum). Another thing you need to know when shopping for carrots, look for “mile 0” or grown at least in your country. Don’t buy any imported vegetables.
Preparing the Carrots for Cooking
Preparing the Carrots for Cooking: Peel carrots with a vegetable peeler, and cut off the ends. Cut carrots crosswise into 1/4-inch slices.
Cooking Methods for Carrots
There are 3 cooking methods for the carrots after the preparation.
Boiling
To boil the carrots, add 1 inch of water (and 1/4 teaspoon salt if desired) to a medium saucepan (about 2-quart size). Cover and heat to boiling over high heat. Add the carrot slices, cover, and heat to boiling again. Once water is boiling, reduce heat just enough so the water bubbles gently. Cook covered 12 to 15 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork; drain in a strainer.
Steaming
To cook the carrots using the steaming method, place a steamer basket with 1/2 inch of water in a skillet or saucepan. The water should not touch the bottom of the basket. Place carrot slices in the basket, cover tightly and heat to boiling over high heat. Once water is boiling, reduce heat to low. Steam covered 9 to 11 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Microwaving
To properly microwave the carrots, place carrot slices and 1/4 cup water in a 1-quart microwavable casserole. Cover with plastic wrap, folding back 2-inch edge to vent. Microwave on high 6 to 8 minutes, stirring after 4 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork. Let stand covered 1 minute; drain in a strainer.
Health Benefits of Carrots
The high water content in this vegetable makes it a healthy food. Studies show that water content is around 86-95%. All the healthy food recipes containing carrots as an ingredient are recommended by 99% of doctors and nutritionists. Do you think this is a coincidence? Don’t think so!
Carrot’s Minerals and Vitamins
Carrots have an enormous quantity of minerals and vitamins and notably, they are rich in Vitamin A, vitamin B6, potassium and vitamin K.
- Vitamin A: The beta-carotene content in carrots gets converted into vitamin A. Your body turns it and promotes healthy vision. It will also help with improving development, growth and immune functions in your body.
- Biotin: It is one of the B-vitamins, and it was previously vitamin H. It can play a crucial role in protein and fat metabolism in your body.
- Vitamin K: Otherwise called Phylloquinone, the K vitamin is critical in improving bone health and also for blood coagulation.
- Potassium: When it comes to blood pressure control, potassium plays an essential role.
- Vitamin B6: The conversion of food into energy happens in your body with the help of a group of related vitamins jointly called vitamin B6.
Benefits of Carrots
- Slows down aging
- Prevents cancer
- Improves vision
- Cleanses your body
- Prevents heart disease
- Promotes healthy skin
- Prevents infections
- Prevents strokes and
- Protects teeth and gums
With all of these benefits being said, you now know why using carrots in your recipes can help your health. Cook them properly and you’ll have a healthy meal! Go Carrots!