Thoroughly wash potatoes and carrots under cold running water, using a vegetable brush to scrub away dirt and debris. Peeling is optional, depending on preference and recipe.
Washing and prepping potatoes and carrots is a simple process that ensures you're removing any dirt, pesticides, or other unwanted substances from the surface of the vegetables. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Gather your supplies: You'll need cold running water, a vegetable brush, and a clean cutting board.
Rinse the vegetables: Place the potatoes or carrots under cold running water. This helps to loosen any loose dirt.
Scrub with a vegetable brush: Use the vegetable brush to scrub the surface of the potatoes or carrots. Pay close attention to areas with visible dirt or blemishes. Apply gentle pressure and work your way around the entire vegetable.
Rinse again: After scrubbing, rinse the potatoes or carrots again under cold running water to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
Peel (optional): If you prefer to peel your potatoes or carrots, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. Peeling is often a matter of personal preference or recipe requirements. Many nutrients are found in the skin, so leaving it on is a healthy option.
Trim and cut: Trim off any ends or blemishes. Then, cut the potatoes or carrots into the desired shape and size for your recipe.
If you're leaving the skin on, consider buying organic potatoes and carrots to minimize pesticide exposure. Even with organic produce, thorough washing is still essential.