Carrot is one of the most used cuisine vegetables used in salads, stews, soups and even puree. However, few people know the best way to cook to preserve their nutrients. The most common techniques, such as sauté or bake, can reduce some of the beneficial properties of carrots, so they are not the most recommended.
Steam cooking proves to be the best option to get the most out of carrots. In this way, the vegetable does not come into direct contact with water, avoiding the loss of important nutrients. In addition, steam softens carrots and enhances its natural flavor, dispensing with the need to add fats.
Steam Benefits
According to the 20 minutes, among the advantages of steam carrot consumption, the preservation of nutrients, especially beta carotene, essential for eye and skin health, stand out. This technique also helps to release the beta carotene, facilitating its conversion to vitamin A, fundamental to the immune system.
Improvement of digestion and low calorie
Carrot fiber gets softer after steam cooking, which makes digestion easier and improves nutrient absorption without loss of its benefits. On the other hand, not requiring oil or butter, it is a low option in calories, ideal for those looking to take care of food.
How to prepare carrots to steam
To cook the carrot steam, the vegetable should be cut into slices or strips, allowing steam to penetrate uniformly and quickly. Then put yourself on a dowel over a pan of boiling water, covering the container so that the steam cooks.
Ideal cooking time
According to the same source, the ideal cooking time is between 5 and 7 minutes, until the carrot is tender but still firm. Thus, it is avoided by losing texture and flavor, ensuring more tasty and nutritious preparation.
Simple and effective
This simple and effective method is an intelligent way to include such versatile food in the diet, maximizing its health benefits. Steam carrots can be consumed alone or integrated into various recipes.
Importance of careful preparation
Care in preparation is critical to taking advantage of its nutritional qualities, as methods involving immersion in water or high temperatures can decrease their value.
Betacarotene preservation is especially important as this antioxidant compound protects cells and contributes to eye health, helping to prevent vision problems.
Vitamin A and Immunity
In addition, vitamin A, derived from the beta carotene, strengthens the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections.
Ease of digestion
The digestibility of steam carrot is superior to other forms of cooking, facilitating the work of the digestive system, which is beneficial for all age groups.
Ideal for healthy diets
The absence of fat addition makes this ideal preparation for people who follow diets with caloric restrictions or for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Natural Flavor highlighted
Finally, the natural flavor of carrots is enhanced by steam, providing a more authentic and pleasant gastronomic experience, according to.
Adopting steam cooking in carrot preparation is thus a smart choice for those who want to combine taste and health in one meal.
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