How To Store Carrots (So They're Crispy For Months!)
Learn how to store carrots the right way by using these simple, proven techniques! Whether you have extras from stir-fries or you've stocked up for a big stew, these tips will help you keep them fresh.
Equipment
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Storage containers
- Pot
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 Carrot
Instructions
Fridge
- Store: Store carrots (whole unpeeled or already cut) in a container, large jar, or sealable bag full of fresh water.
- Maintain: Change out the water about every 4-5 days as it becomes murky and dirty. Once submerged, carrots remain extra crispy and crunchy for up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
Freezer
- Freeze: Grated carrots can be stored straight from fresh in a labeled freezer bag or container. For other cuts (diced, coins, julienned), blanch them first.
Blanching
- Cut: Cut the tops of the carrots, peel them, and wash them in water. Chop them the way you would like to eat them later (diced, coins, julienned).
- Boil: Boil water in a pot, and fill another bowl with ice water. Line a pan with parchment paper. Once the water is boiling, add the carrots for 3-4 minutes.
- Ice Bath: Remove the carrots from the water and immediately transfer them to the ice water for 3-4 minutes to stop the cooking process.
- Freeze: Place the carrots on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and freeze them for about 1-2 hours.
- Store: Once frozen, add them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Video
Notes
Should I wash carrots before storing them? No, you should not wash carrots before storing them. In fact, they are coated in a waxy layer that helps them last longer. If you scrub it off, it may reduce their storage life. The only time you need to wash them is if you are blanching them for the freezer.
How do you store carrots long-term? Carrots are best kept in a root cellar surrounded by leaves, sawdust, and mulch. If you don't have access to a root cellar, don't worry! Keep them unpeeled and whole submerged in a container of water in the fridge.
Is it better to store carrots in water? You can store carrots in a bag in the crisper drawer, but they will lose moisture more quickly than if kept in water. Whenever possible, store carrots submerged in water. If they turn soft, you can still use them in soups and stews.
