Carrots are a versatile staple in any kitchen, perfect for tossing into a salad or roasting for a Sunday feast. Yet, they often go slimy or mouldy within days due to improper storage.
The high water content in carrots becomes problematic when trapped in plastic packaging, fostering bacterial growth that leads to rapid spoilage. Removing them from plastic and exposing them to air, on the other hand, causes them to dry out and turn rubbery. Mastering the art of carrot storage is about maintaining the right moisture level without inviting mould, and Taesha Butler, an expert in healthy eating and the brains behind The Natural Nurture, shares a simple solution involving a mason jar.
Taesha said: “I like to use wide-mouth mason jars or old peanut butter jars to store my cut carrots, but any container that you have that is airtight will work for storage.
“The important part is to cover the carrots with water to prevent them from drying out.”
It might seem odd, but submerging carrots in water keeps them fresher for longer by providing a constant source of moisture that ensures they remain crisp and crunchy.
The coolness of the water also deters bacteria, which prefer warmer climes, thus slowing down potential bacterial growth.
Moreover, carrots with bruised skins are more prone to mould, but a mason jar offers protection from damage and minimises air exposure, further preventing spoilage.
Storing carrots in water can significantly extend their freshness, helping to reduce food waste and simplifying meal prep when it’s time to cook them.
To begin, wash your carrots to get rid of any dirt or bacteria that might be lingering on them from the supermarket.
It tends to be best to peel the carrots, as this will remove any bacteria stuck in the grooves of the skin.
Then, chop the carrots into uniform pieces that will comfortably fit into your mason jar.
Place the carrot pieces into the jar, fill it with water, and then securely fasten the lid.
Position the jar on a shelf in your fridge and the carrots should remain fresh for at least a week, often even longer.
It’s worth noting that you should refresh the water in the carrot jar every few days to maintain optimal freshness.