Carrots are a staple of many dishes, and it’s important to always have them in your fridge. The tricky part is storing them properly, but you can use these tips to make sure they last longer.
Short-Term Storage
The trickiest part about storing carrots is keeping them properly hydrated and stopping them from wilting. The first step you should take is removing the green, leafy carrot tops, because they pull moisture from the roots.
After that’s done, place carrots in a container filled with water, and make sure to change water on a regular basis. It’s also important to keep your carrots away from ethylene gas producing fruits—such as apples and pears—to slow down the ripening process.
Long-Term Storage
When it comes to long-term storage, there are several methods to keep your carrots fresh. If you’re going to place them in a freezer, it’s important to blanche them by exposing them to high temperatures, usually in steam or boiling water.
It’s also possible to store carrots in a dark, cool, and well-ventilated area—such as a root cellar with other fruits and vegetables. They can also be stored unwashed and covered by sand, or left in the ground, covered with mulch.
