Carrots
Year-Round
Health Benefits
Carrots are packed full of antioxidants and beta-carotene. They are also an excellent source of vitamin A. A single serving provides 210% of the average adults needs for the day. Carrots are also high in fiber, folate, manganese, phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and vitamins K and E. There are several additional benefits that carrots give us, including; improved vision, healthier skin, cancer and heart disease prevention, cleanses the body, and protects teeth and gums.
History
Carrots were first grown for their aromatic seeds and leaves. Some close relatives to the carrot are still grown for these properties (examples include: fennel, dill, cumin, parsley). The wild carrot has been selectively bred for centuries to minimize woodiness, reduce bitterness, and increase sweetness; cultivating the carrots we have grown to know and love. The first carrots were mutant strains of the purple carrot that gradually developed into the plump, sweet, orange variety that is common today.
Recipes to Try
How to Store
Remove all of the frond to keep the carrot from drying out and rotting. Place carrots in an airtight container, completely submerged in water. Change the water every 4-5 days. Carrots can keep for up to three months when stored properly.
How to Prepare
Trim frond and discard. Wash carrot roots with cold water and gently scrub clean. Carrots do not need to be peeled when grown organically. Slice, grate, shred, slice, or cut into rounds.
Ways to Enjoy
Carrots can be enjoyed raw, julienned, grated, shredded, or sliced into sticks or rounds. When heated, carrots beta-carotene has been shown to become more bioavailable. Be careful not to overcook, though. Toss with a salad or stir-fry. Roast carrots with a bit of olive oil or throw into stews, casseroles, omelets, and quiches. They are also a nice additions to cakes, muffins, breads and cookies.
Health Benefits
Carrots are packed full of antioxidants and beta-carotene. They are also an excellent source of vitamin A. A single serving provides 210% of the average adults needs for the day. Carrots are also high in fiber, folate, manganese, phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and vitamins K and E. There are several additional benefits that carrots give us, including; improved vision, healthier skin, cancer and heart disease prevention, cleanses the body, and protects teeth and gums.