Should I peel carrots and potatoes before roasting them?

Question

Find out if peeling carrots and potatoes is necessary for flavor or texture.

Answer 1

You generally don't need to peel carrots and potatoes before roasting them, especially if they are young and have clean, thin skins, as the skins add nutrients, flavor, and texture.

Detailed Explanation:

The decision to peel carrots and potatoes before roasting often comes down to personal preference, but from a culinary and nutritional standpoint, it's often unnecessary:

• Nutritional Value: The skins of both carrots and potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Peeling removes a significant portion of these beneficial compounds.
• Flavor and Texture: Roasted potato skins become wonderfully crispy and add a rustic texture and slightly earthy flavor to the dish. Roasted carrot skins are thin and barely noticeable after cooking, and they contribute to the overall sweetness.
• Ease and Efficiency: Skipping the peeling step saves a lot of time and effort in meal preparation.
• Exceptions (When to Peel):
  • Very Thick or Blemished Skins: If potatoes have very thick, tough, or heavily blemished skins, or if carrots are old and woody, peeling might be preferable for texture.
  • Personal Preference: Some people simply prefer the aesthetic and texture of peeled vegetables.
  • Specific Recipes: Certain dishes might require peeled vegetables for a smoother texture (e.g., purees).

Regardless of whether you peel, always scrub vegetables thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Pro Tip:

For carrots, leaving a bit of the green top on (if you find them with tops attached) can add a beautiful visual appeal to your roasted dish.