TOP 22 ways to properly store carrots at home for the winter
For long-term use of vegetables, you need to know how to save carrots for the winter without reducing the taste. Carrots are a vegetable that should be eaten regularly because they are rich in nutrients. Improper storage not only reduces the usefulness of the vegetable, but also makes the appearance of carrots unattractive.
How and when to collect
The roots are harvested at the end of summer. Full ripening of the vegetable occurs when the lower leaves are completely yellow. Most often this is in August, depending on the variety. In order for the vegetable to be stored, it is necessary to carry out a correct harvest; for this, the following algorithm of actions is performed:
- carrots, as well as leaves, are dug from the ground;
- carrots are spread and dried during the day;
- the green part of the vegetable is cut off;
- the ground is shaken from the vegetable.
Carrots should be examined and sorted by size and damage. Damaged vegetables should be eaten in a short time. Vegetables with a good skin are used for further storage.
Ripe carrots have a shiny skin, depending on the variety; the vegetable tops are easily removed by twisting them.
How to choose the right carrot for long term storage
In order for the vegetable to rest until spring, it is necessary to choose the right carrots. When sorting the crop, preference should be given to the following specimens:
- only fully ripe carrots are used;
- there should be no visible damage and rot on the carrots;
- the surface of the fruit should be smooth and bright in color;
- the size should be medium;
- carrots are not used if the tops were lethargic or damaged.
You should also pay attention to the type of vegetable. Some species are not recommended for storage.
Preparation for storage
After the carrots are dried, it is necessary to prepare the vegetable for a long stay in the storage area. To do this, the entire green part is removed from the tuber, which can lead to the appearance of rot. Sort the roots by size and variety.
Basic methods
A large number of methods are used to preserve the roots throughout the winter. These methods allow you to preserve the vegetable without compromising its taste.
in the sand
To use this method, you must first sift the sand. The root crop is folded into a box, sand is poured over it in a thick layer. A second layer of carrots and sand is laid out on top. The box is placed in a cool place and periodically moistened.
Important.In order for carrots to be stored for a long time, it is necessary to lay the vegetables at a distance from each other, this will reduce the risk of damage to one case of infection from the rest.
in the sawdust
Sawdust is a simple method for preserving vegetables. Carrots should be dried and peeled from the ground. A layer of sawdust is poured into wooden boxes and the vegetables are laid out. Top layer of sawdust. In this way, several layers can be made until the box is completely filled.
In plastic bags
This method is used if the harvest is large. The root vegetable is folded in bags that are not tied and stored in a cool place. Vegetables should be periodically sorted, discarding damaged ones.
In clay
The use of clay reduces the risk of penetration of harmful microorganisms. A suspension based on clay and water is used.
Fill
The box is covered with foil, and the prepared carrots are laid out in a thin layer, filled with clay and left to dry completely. Once the first layer is dry, you can fill in the second layer.
Plunge
This method is more complex. The root vegetable must be treated with garlic water in order to eliminate all germs. Then the root vegetable is dipped in clay to form a shell and dried in direct sunlight.
In the foam
Using foam allows you to remove excess moisture and create a natural environment for vegetables. The mousse is laid out in wooden boxes, the carrots on top. The tuber is also covered with a layer of moss. Multiple layers can be used in one drawer.
In a pot
Large containers are used, which must first be washed and dried in the sun.The harvest is folded into an enameled container and tightly closed with a lid. Place the pan in a cool place.
In onion skins
Onion skin disinfectant. The pods should be dried before storing the vegetables. The root crop is folded into a box, and onion husks are poured on top. Vegetables are stacked in layers, a short distance from each other. This method of preservation makes it possible to preserve all the taste of the carrots throughout the winter.
In the garden
This method is used for those who have a large harvest. Carrots are not dug up, the tops are carefully trimmed. Sand is poured on top and the sheets are piled. You can use such a vegetable in the spring after the snow melts.
In cling film
Suitable for small quantities. Peeled carrots are carefully wrapped in plastic and placed in the refrigerator in the vegetable drawer. Each carrot is individually wrapped in foil. This will reduce the risk of damaging the rest of the roots.
In paraffin
Helps form a shell that protects the crop from the penetration of harmful microorganisms that cause rot. For use, paraffin is melted in a water bath. Using a brush, apply a thin layer to the roots. The root crop is hung to dry completely. For this method, it is recommended to cut the tops after the shell is dry.
chalk chatter
For preparation, mix a small amount of chalk with water until a liquid consistency is obtained. Soak the fruit in a liquid and let it dry. After the chalky shell appears, put it in a box.
Features of home storage
In order for the crop to rot less, it is important to carefully observe the storage features in various places.
On the apartment balcony or loggia
When storing on a closed balcony or in a loggia, the following rules are observed:
- fits in a wooden box;
- the box is installed on a hill in a dry place;
- the container with carrots should be insulated with a cover.
You can store the roots on an unheated balcony for a long time, but it is necessary to regularly inspect the fruits for damage and rotting.
In the garage
It is necessary to store the roots in the garage in a plastic container in a dark place. Avoid proximity to heating appliances. Also, the container is placed away from chemicals, as carrots tend to absorb odors.
In the freezer
For this method of storage, the roots must be washed and cleaned. The peeled vegetable is folded in a bag and placed in the freezer.
For convenience, you can pre-grind on a grater.
In the fridge
Refrigeration keeps carrots fresh. To do this, the vegetable must be thoroughly washed and dried. Wrap in paper and refrigerate. The freshness of vegetables can last up to 2 months.
Drying
It is used if it is not possible to store the crop in large quantities. Dried carrots do not lose their beneficial properties and can be stored.
Oven
The root vegetable is rubbed or cut into thin slices and piled on a baking sheet. Bake at low temperature and dry, stirring regularly.
Microwave
To dry the root vegetable, you need to chop the vegetable, put it on a tray and put it in the microwave. In addition to the tray, place a small container of water. Make sure the liquid does not boil. Stir and turn the carrots regularly.
Electric dryer
It is often used to dry carrots and other types of vegetables. Fruits are cut into circles and laid out on a special baking sheet. It is placed in the dryer and the appropriate mode is activated.
Basement or cellar
In order for carrots to be stored for a long time, it is necessary to choose a dry, well-ventilated place in the basement. It is necessary to store the roots in the basement in a wooden crate with sawdust. The root crop should be inspected every 15 days for damage.
Recommended varieties
Some varieties can be kept without compromising taste.
Moscow winter
The variety is mid-season. Berries easily tolerate frost. The pulp is juicy, bright orange in color. The fruits are rarely attacked by pests and are suitable for fresh consumption and storage.
Nantes
A classic variety that can be grown on all types of soil. A distinctive feature of the culture is the size of the conical fruits and the bright orange color. It can retain its taste even in winter.
Shantane
A distinctive feature of the culture is the fruit of a conical shape. It can yield crops even in bad weather conditions. The advantage of root culture is its integrity, the fruits rarely crack and change shape.
Vitamin 6
The variety is suitable for storage. Has an early ripening period. Rarely exposed to disease. The fruits are small, regular in shape. The fruits are firm, kept for a long time.
Samson
A distinctive feature of the variety is long-term storage, with proper preparation it can stand until spring. The fruits are large, elongated. The fruit is firm, with great palatability. Carrots do not have a pit.The crop ripens early.
Cascade
Root culture prefers loose soils that are saturated with useful components. With proper care, it can produce large yields that can be stored for a long time. The fruits are elongated, orange in color. Fresh carrots are used for cooking and fresh consumption.
nigel
The root crop is used for storage in a basement environment. Externally, the fruit is small. Dense textured carrots with a blunt end. The variety is productive regardless of weather conditions.
Important. If there is a lot of air circulation in the room, it can cause root crops to germinate. This factor must therefore be taken into account. If carrots grow, young shoots should be removed regularly.
Tips & Tricks
In order for the vegetable to retain its useful qualities, the following tips and recommendations of gardeners should be observed:
- To preserve the root vegetable, the dirty vegetable must be rinsed and dried. Moisture and soil residue promote rot and other harmful microorganisms.
- The box should be treated with a solution of manganese and dried in the sun. This will prevent contamination of vegetables.
- If the carrot is slow, do not use it for storage.
- To store vegetables, the room temperature should not exceed 12 degrees.
- Two containers of water are used for washing. One for removing dirt, the other for rinsing.
- Large roots should not be used. For storage in a box of sand or sawdust, use a medium-sized conical carrot. These fruits can be bent into a mirror-like position.
- If the sawdust becomes wet during storage, it should be replaced with a new one. Spent sawdust from conifers.
- It is necessary to put the carrots in the box only after the cutting of the tops has dried. Otherwise, a process of decay will appear.
Only whole carrots are used for preservation, damaged and cut vegetables quickly deteriorate and infect the rest of the specimens. These copies should not be stored in the same box.
Result
Carrots are vegetables that saturate the human body with all useful substances in winter. Properly stored root vegetables can be eaten all winter. For storage, varieties bred specifically for these purposes are used. In addition, during the growth period, it is necessary to observe all the characteristics of maintenance and regular fertilizing.