How to Cook Carrots Soft

Soft carrots are satisfying, delicious and full of nutrients, but getting the texture of soft carrots just right requires the perfect cooking technique. To get your carrots super soft, try boiling or roasting them. You can also make glazed carrots for a crowd — glazed carrots are a holiday favorite.

Eating lots of carrots may tint your skin a yellow or orange color, but this side effect is harmless. You should still consume plenty of raw and cooked carrots into your diet for the nutritional and health benefits. Cooked carrots can be incorporated into many recipes, including soups, stews, vegetable medleys and other side dishes.

The cartoon character Bugs Bunny was often seen eating carrots. Perhaps this was because he is a rabbit, but it could also be due to the impressive carrot nutrition facts and benefits.

According to the USDA, 1 cup of cooked carrots contains:

• 55 calories
• 0.3 grams of fat
• 12.8 grams of carbohydrates
• 1.2 grams of protein
• 4.7 grams of fiber
• 148 percent daily value (DV) of vitamin A
• 18 percent DV of vitamin K
• 11 percent DV of vitamin E

Carrots also contain vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, calcium and iron. They are naturally low in sugar and sodium, and they are free of dietary cholesterol.

The well-known benefit of carrots is their protection and promotion of good eyesight. However, the benefits of carrots do not end there. According to Mayo Clinic, the nutrients and antioxidants found in carrots may reduce the risk of cancer, promote heart health, control blood pressure and boost immunity.

Read more: Calorie List for Vegetables

While you can crunch on raw baby carrots, cooking them enhances the flavor and adds warmth to the popular vegetable. During the holiday season or on special occasions, try making these glazed carrots for a crowd.

Start by chopping the carrots into thin slices. For a smooth texture, you can peel the carrots before chopping. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly beforehand.

Once your ingredients are gathered, bring your liquid to a boil. You can use plain water or add chicken or vegetable stock for extra flavor. Cook them for eight to 10 minutes or until tender.

In a separate pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. This will allow the carrots to caramelize. You can also add 2 teaspoons of sugar for added sweetness. Drain the boiling water then transfer the carrots into the pan with melted butter and sugar. Cook them for approximately five minutes until they are slightly browned and glazed. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper.

Read more: Here's What Serving Sizes of 10 Vegetables Actually Look Like

According to Cleveland Clinic, there are a variety of different types of carrots. The main difference is their hue: orange, yellow, red, purple and white. They also contain different nutrients. For example, orange carrots contain higher amounts of beta-carotene, whose pigment is responsible for the color.

When following carrot recipes, you can use the various types of carrots interchangeably. They all have a similar taste and texture. When making glazed carrots for a crowd, you can't go wrong with classic orange carrots.

Other carrot recipes include:

• Roasted carrot hummus
• Carrot parmesan fries
• Spicy Asian carrot noodles