Carrots are a kitchen staple. They are second only to onions or potatoes as one of the most commonly used ingredients in our savory and sweet recipes. They can be found in our regular lunch salads, sides, and weekend dinners. We eat them raw with a dip, roasted until tender, and also glazed. Of course, let’s not forget about the season’s favorite, carrot cake! Is there anything that the all-powerful carrot cannot accomplish? I believe nothing. Having said that today we will be looking into how to cut carrots perfectly and in different variations. Not to mention, I will be topping up this article with some amazing carrots-based delightful recipe ideas for you.
What are Carrots?
Given that there are up to 20 types of carrots in the world, it is not surprising that they come in a wide range of colors. The first carrots were purple or white. Carrots are a widely used vegetable in a variety of cuisines. Then there are baby carrots, which are somewhat mysterious to the uninitiated. They are either premature carrots, or pieces of larger, thin carrots cut into pieces. So, how do you cut a carrot? There are multiple options.
Interesting Fact: Carrots are made up of 88% water. That is why it is said that “carrots are a great thing to eat when you’re hungry and want to stay that way.”
How to Shredd Carrots?
Carrots can be cut in a variety of ways. However, almost every method begins the same way: peel the carrot and cut it into pieces. However, the technique differs depending on the recipe you’re making.
The rounded edges are fine for most homemade recipes. Simply cut the whole carrot into coin-shaped pieces.
Are you team chopped or team shredded?
I use a box grater on a cutting board whenever I make a recipe for shredded carrots. Scrape the pointed end of the carrot along the large holes of the box grater in a downward motion. Repeat this shredding motion with each carrot until you reach the last 2 inches. Keep your hands and fingers clear of the path!
When I’m making a stew or soup, I always chop carrots into bite-sized chunks. Chopping results in coarser chunks, whereas dicing results in precise, standardized cuts. So first, carrots should be peeled and cut lengthwise. Then, take the slices and cut them again lengthwise, about 1/2 inch wide this time. At this point, you can chop them as coarsely or finely as you like.
If you plan to serve carrot sticks with a dip or as finger food for your children, square off one side of the carrot to keep it stable on the board. Remove a thin slice from one side and place the flat part on your board. Cut crosswise into the desired lengths; 3 inches is a good benchmark. Then cut into sticks of the desired thickness.
When I’m making pot pies or mixed vegetables, however, I prefer to dice my carrots. To make diced carrots, stack the carrot sticks and cut them into whatever size dice you want.
Different Ways To Eat Them
This vegetable is so versatile. You can enjoy it in so many different ways;
- Make a healthy power smoothie
- Serve them with various dips
- Fancy some Chinese, how about a quick homemade stir-fry?
- Feeling peckish before lunchtime, how about a fresh crunchy glazed-snack?
- Looking for an easy side dish to serve up, how about honey-glazed carrots?
- Craving fries on a diet, Carrot fries it is.
- Or everyone’s fall favorite carrot cake.
Why Eat Carrots?
Carrots are high in antioxidants and have numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key points:
They are beneficial to your eyes. This is most likely the most well-known carrot superpower. They’re high in beta-carotene, a compound that your body converts into vitamin A, which aids in the health of your eyes. Furthermore, beta-carotene protects your eyes from the sun and reduces your risk of cataracts and other eye problems.
Additionally, antioxidants can help your body fight cancer and keep your heart healthy.
Nutritional Facts
A half-cup of carrots equals one serving which is 25 calories. And it can give you up to:
- 73% of your daily Vitamin A requirement
- 9% of your daily vitamin K requirement
- 8% of your daily potassium and fiber requirement
- 5% of your daily vitamin C intake
- 2% of your daily calcium and iron requirement
Must-Try recipes
Check out the following if you are looking for some vegetarian options or just want to try something new:
- Kale and Carrot Recipe
- What to serve with Potato Pancakes?
- Kale Chips Recipe
- Italian Beets Recipe
- Middle Eastern Spinach Recipe
- Where can I buy a Vegetarian Meatball?
- Vegetarian Pepperoni
- Chili Lettuce Wraps
Closing Line
So how do you cut your carrots? Do you have a preference? What’s your favorite recipe using carrots? I hope you found this article informative. Do leave a comment below to let me know.
I am a yogi with a smoldering passion for nutrition and healthy living. I have been a Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach for over 11 years and now I want to help you. My mission is to inspire as many people as I can to expand their awareness and broaden their horizons by giving a voice to the choices that create abundant, radiant health. Here I share deliciously simple plant-based recipes, nutrition resources, detox tips, and a glimpse into my whole lifestyle.