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Carrots are a versatile and healthy vegetable, often used in soups, salads, and snacks. However, the peels are frequently discarded, contributing to unnecessary food waste. What many people don’t realise is that carrot peels are rich in vitamins and nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to your cooking.
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By finding ways to reuse carrot peels, you can not only reduce waste but also add flavour and texture to various dishes. Whether used in soups, stocks, or snacks, carrot peels can be creatively repurposed for a more sustainable kitchen. Here are some easy and innovative ways to make the most of carrot peels in your cooking.
Make Pesto From Carrot Peels
Turn carrot peels into a vibrant and nutritious pesto. Blend carrot peels with garlic, olive oil, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), and a handful of fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. Add a splash of lemon juice for freshness and season with salt and pepper. This carrot peel pesto can be used as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread, or dip for crackers. It’s a delicious way to repurpose peels and create a unique condiment.
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Use Them For Garnishing
Carrot peels can be an attractive and flavourful garnish for your dishes. Simply wash the peels thoroughly, then slice them into thin strips or curl them for added elegance. Lightly sauté or roast them to enhance their flavour. Use these garnishes to top soups, salads, or even rice dishes. They add a pop of colour and a slight crunch, elevating the presentation and taste of your meals.
Carrot Peel Stir Fry
For a quick and healthy side dish, try making a carrot peel stir fry. Heat a bit of oil in a pan and toss in the carrot peels along with your favourite spices or seasonings, such as garlic, soy sauce, or chilli flakes. You can also add other leftover vegetable scraps for a more colourful and nutritious stir fry. Serve it as a side dish or mix it with rice or noodles for a light, wholesome meal.
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Carrot Peel Chips
Transform carrot peels into crispy and flavourful chips. Toss the peels in a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and your preferred seasonings (like paprika, garlic powder, or rosemary), and bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until crispy. These carrot peel chips make for a healthy and satisfying snack, perfect for munching between meals or serving at gatherings.
Carrot Peel Soups
Add carrot peels to your favourite soup recipes for an extra boost of flavour and nutrients. Whether it’s a creamy vegetable soup, lentil soup, or chicken broth, carrot peels blend seamlessly into the mix. Simply wash the peels, chop them if needed, and add them while simmering the soup. They’ll break down and contribute to the rich flavour profile of the dish.
Carrot Peel Vegetable Stock
Carrot peels are an excellent addition to homemade vegetable stock. Collect carrot peels along with other vegetable scraps like onion skins, celery leaves, and herb stems. Simmer them in water with a pinch of salt and spices to create a flavourful base for soups, stews, and sauces. Strain the stock once it’s ready, and you’ll have a nutrient-rich liquid that enhances your cooking.
Image Credits: Freepik
Carrot Peel Smoothies
Add a nutritious twist to your smoothies by blending carrot peels into the mix. Combine the peels with fruits like bananas, oranges, or apples, along with yoghurt or almond milk, for a refreshing and vitamin-packed drink. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs well with most fruits, creating a healthy smoothie that’s perfect for breakfast or a midday snack.
