Looking for an easy way to cook your carrots? Check out this quick and simple guide on How to steam carrots in Microwave?! This method is fast, easy, and perfect for those busy weeknights.
Anyone who knows how to cook carrots knows that they can be boiled, roasted, or microwaved. While boiling and roasting are the most common methods, microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook them without any extra fuss. If you’re wondering how to steam carrots in the microwave, keep reading for a step-by-step guide. So what are you waiting for? Steam some carrots today!
Table of Contents
Why Cook Carrots In Microwave?
When it comes to cooking carrots, most people automatically think of boiling or roasting them. While those methods are great, they do require a bit more time and effort. Microwaving is a great alternative because it’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any extra steps.
Another benefit of microwaving your carrots is that it helps to retain their nutrients. When you boil or roast carrots, some of the nutrients can be lost in the cooking process. However, microwaving helps to preserve those nutrients so you can get all the health benefits of eating carrots.
So now that you know the benefits of microwaving your carrots, let’s get into how to do it!
What kind of carrots to use?
For this guide, we’ll be using baby carrots. Baby carrots are small and have a delicate flavor that pairs well with many different dishes. Plus, they cook quickly which makes them perfect for busy weeknights.
If you can’t find baby carrots at your local grocery store, you can also use regular-sized carrots. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
Read Also: How to cook rice in a microwave?
What Happens When You Microwave Carrots?
When microwaving carrots, the water inside of them starts to heat up and turn into steam. This steam then cooks the carrots from the inside out. As the carrots cook, they become softer and more tender.
The key to successful microwaved carrots is to not overcook them. If you overcook your carrots, they will become mushy and lose their flavor. Instead, you want to cook them just until they are tender.
To check if your carrots are done, simply insert a fork into one of them. If the fork slides in easily, then they are done!
Now that you know how microwaving works, let’s get into how to do it.
How To Steam Carrots In Microwave – Step-by-Step Guide
It’s time to learn how to steam them in the microwave. This guide will show you how to do it in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients For Steaming Carrots In Microwaves
– 1 cup of water
– 1 pound of carrots, peeled and chopped into pieces
– 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Start by washing your carrots thoroughly. You want to make sure they’re clean before cooking them.
2. Cut the carrots into even pieces. This will help them cook evenly in the microwave.
3. Add the carrots to a microwave-safe dish with a little bit of water. The water will help to create steam and cook the carrots.
4. cover the dish with a lid or Plastic wrap and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and number of carrots you’re cooking.
5. Once the carrots are done, remove them from the microwave and season as desired. You can add salt, pepper, or any other spices you like.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully steamed your carrots in the microwave. Now all that’s left to do is enjoy them!
Video:
Microwaving is a great way to cook carrots because it’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any extra steps. Plus, it helps to retain their nutrients. So if you’re looking for a fast and healthy way to cook your carrots, give microwaving a try!
Nutrition:
One cup of cooked carrots contains:
– 98 calories
– 2 grams of protein
– 0 grams of fat
– 21 grams of carbohydrates
– 7 grams of fiber
– 9 grams of sugar
– 3 milligrams of sodium
Carrots are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain the minerals potassium and manganese. Carrots are low in calories and fat but high in fiber and sugar.
Now that you know how to steam carrots in the microwave, give it a try! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family.
Notes:
– If you’re short on time, you can also buy pre-cut carrots at the grocery store. This will save you some time in the kitchen.
– You can steam other vegetables in the microwave using this same method. Try broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans!
– Leftover cooked carrots can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
– You can also freeze cooked carrots for up to six months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Steaming carrots in the microwave is a quick and easy way to cook them. Plus, it helps to retain their nutrients. So if you’re looking for a fast and healthy way to cook your carrots, give microwaving a try!
Tools Used in This Recipe:
– Microwave-safe dish
– Plastic wrap or lid
– Knife and cutting board
– Measuring cup
– Salt and pepper (optional)
How long does to microwave carrots?
The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your carrots.
- For baby carrots or thinly sliced carrots, cook for 2-3 minutes.
- For medium carrots, cook for 4-5 minutes.
- And for large carrots, cook for 6-8 minutes.
How To Steam Carrots in a Plastic Bag in the Microwave?
Ingredients:
-1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
-1 tablespoon water
-1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Place the carrots in a large plastic bag. Add the water and salt, then seal the bag tightly.
2. Microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
3. Carefully open the bag and transfer the carrots to a serving dish. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your steamed carrots!
How to Steam Carrots in Microwave Using Plastic Wrap
This is the most common method of steaming carrots in the microwave. All you need is a microwave-safe dish, some water, and a few minutes.
1. Place your carrots in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add water until it reaches about halfway up the carrots.
3. Cover the dish with plastic wrap, making sure to vent it so that steam can escape.
4. Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
5. Remove from the microwave and enjoy!
How to Steam Carrots in Microwave Without Plastic Wrap
If you don’t have any plastic wrap on hand, don’t worry! You can still steam your carrots without it. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Start by washing your carrots thoroughly under running water.
2. Cut off the tops of the carrots, then slice them into thin pieces.
3. Place the carrot slices in a microwave-safe dish.
4. Add water to the dish, making sure that the carrots are covered.
5. Place a lid on the dish, then microwave for 3-5 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
6. Remove the lid and allow the carrots to cool before serving.
How To Steam Baby Carrots In Microwave?
Place carrots in a microwave-safe dish and add water so that it covers the bottom of the dish. Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. Remove from the microwave and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
– If you’re short on time, you can also buy pre-cut carrots at the grocery store. This will save you some time in the kitchen.
– You can steam other vegetables in the microwave using this same method. Try broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans!
– Leftover cooked carrots can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
– You can also freeze cooked carrots for up to six months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Do I Serve with Steamed Carrots?
There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy your steamed carrots! Here are a few of our favorites:
– Serve them with some butter and a sprinkle of salt for a simple side dish.
– Add them to a salad for a healthy and filling lunch.
– Toss them with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs for a flavorful side dish.
– Serve them alongside roasted chicken or fish for a complete meal.
– Add them to a soup or stew for an extra dose of veggies.
– Enjoy them as a healthy snack on their own!
No matter how you enjoy them, we hope you love your steamed carrots!
How to Store Carrots
Properly storing carrots will help them stay fresh and delicious for longer. Here are a few tips on how to store carrots:
– If you bought carrots with the greens still attached, cut them off and store the greens in a separate bag in the fridge. The greens will only last for 1 – 2 days, so use them as soon as possible.
– Carrots can be stored in the fridge, either in a plastic bag or in a container with some water. They should last for about two weeks when stored this way.
– You can also store carrots in the freezer. Cut them into pieces, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen carrots will last for up to six months.
– When you’re ready to use them, thaw the carrots in the fridge overnight or cook them directly from frozen.
We hope these storage tips help you keep your carrots fresh and delicious!
FAQ Of how to steam carrots in Microwave
Does Microwaving Carrots Destroy Nutrients?
Microwaving carrots will not destroy all of their nutrients, but it can cause some of them to be lost. For example, microwaving carrots can decrease their levels of carotenoids, which are antioxidants that have been linked to health benefits like a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.
That being said, microwaving carrots is still a healthy cooking method. It’s quick and easy, and it doesn’t require the use of any additional oils or fats. So if you’re looking for a healthy way to cook your carrots, microwaving is a good option.
Is it safe to microwave a carrot?
Yes, it is safe to microwave carrots. Microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook carrots, and it doesn’t require the use of any additional oils or fats. Just be sure to cook them for the appropriate amount of time so that they’re tender but not mushy.
Can you cook frozen carrots in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook frozen carrots in the microwave. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if the carrots are particularly large or thick.
How do you blanch carrots in the microwave?
To blanch carrots in the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a few tablespoons of water. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from the microwave and immediately place them in a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help the carrots retain their color and flavor. Blanching is a good way to cook carrots if you’re planning to freeze them.
Do I Use Whole Carrots, Baby Carrots or do I Cut Them Up?
You can use whole carrots, baby carrots, or cut-up carrots in this recipe. If you’re using whole carrots, just be sure to wash them thoroughly and trim off the ends before cooking. Baby carrots are already washed and trimmed, so they’re ready to go. And if you’re using cut-up carrots, just be sure to cut them into pieces that are roughly the same size so that they cook evenly.
We hope you enjoy this recipe for steamed carrots!
Why is it taking longer than 3 minutes to cook?
It’s important to cook the carrots for the appropriate amount of time so that they’re tender but not mushy. If you’re finding that it’s taking longer than 3 minutes to cook the carrots, it’s likely because they’re particularly large or thick. In this case, you may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time.
Can You Microwave Carrots Before Roasting?
Yes, you can microwave carrots before roasting. Just cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened. This will help them cook faster and more evenly when you roast them.
How do you know when the carrots are done?
The carrots are done when they’re tender but not mushy. To check for doneness, insert a fork into one of the carrots. If it pierces through easily, the carrots are done. If not, cook for an additional minute or two and check again.
Can you steam baby carrots in the microwave?
Yes, you can steam baby carrots in the microwave. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish with a few tablespoons of water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if the carrots are particularly large or thick.
Can I steam my carrots in broth?
Yes, you can steam carrots in broth. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish with broth instead of water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if the carrots are particularly large or thick.
Can I add seasoning to my carrots?
Yes, you can season your carrots however you like. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Just be sure to add the seasoning after the carrots are cooked so that it doesn’t get overcooked.
Can I Freeze These Carrots?
Yes, you can freeze these carrots. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they’ll keep for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave.
Can You Microwave Carrots To Soften Them?
Yes, you can microwave carrots to soften them. Just cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened. This will help them cook faster and more evenly when you roast them.
Can You Microwave Carrots To Reheat Them?
Yes, you can microwave carrots to reheat them. Just cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re heated through. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if the carrots are particularly large or thick.
Can I add water when microwaving carrots?
Yes, you can! If your carrots are looking a little dry, feel free to add a tablespoon or two of water before microwaving. This will help to keep them from drying out and will also create a bit of steam, which is perfect for cooking carrots.
Do I need to peel my carrots before microwaving them?
No, you don’t need to peel your carrots before microwaving them. In fact, it’s actually quite easy to peel them after they’ve been cooked. Just let them cool for a minute or two and then use a knife or your fingers to peel away the skin. It should come off easily!
We hope this FAQ has been helpful! If you have any other questions about how to steam carrots in the microwave or store carrots, feel free to ask us in the comments below.
Conclusion
Cooking carrots in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get them tender and flavorful. Just cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time if the carrots are particularly large or thick. Season however you like and enjoy!
Now that you know how to steam carrots in the microwave, put this healthy vegetable side dish on your dinner table tonight! If you’re looking for other quick and easy recipes, be sure to check out our other blog posts. And if you need help from a professional, our team of experts is here to help. Contact us today for all your cooking needs!
As a chef, Tad Johnson has always been fascinated by the way food can bring people together. He loves to experiment with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen, and he takes great pride in serving up delicious dishes that his guests will love.
Tad’s culinary career began at a young age when he started working in his family’s restaurant. He quickly fell in love with the art of cooking, and he knew that this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. Since then, Tad has worked at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the country, and he is now considered one of the top chefs in the industry.
When he’s not cooking in the kitchen, Tad enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children. He also likes to stay active by playing basketball and hiking outdoors.