Do you want to know how many carrots in a cup? Then you’re not alone. After reading so many recipes, I’m often confused how many carrots should I use if it calls for 1 cup carrots, shredded, or thinly sliced.
To determine the answer, I tested on all sizes of carrots. I also referred to some reputable websites. If you like to know the exact equivalents, check them out below.
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How Many Baby Carrots In A Cup?
According to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 1/2 cup is equal to six baby carrots. If a recipe calls for one cup, then we need 12 baby carrots. The tiny carrots are so potent that 1/2 cup can offer more than a day’s value of vitamin A.
You can buy baby carrots in a 1-pound bag. To store them properly, refrigerate them in a loosely tied plastic bag. Always check the “Best by” label to ensure their freshness. You can eat baby carrots raw, or you can cook them with other vegetables.
Related post: How Much Carrot Juice Is Safe to Drink Daily?
How Many Medium Carrots In A Cup?
Any carrot that’s between 5.5 inches to 7.25 inches is considered a medium carrot. The weight of medium carrots should be between 50-72 grams. A cup of carrots differs on how it’s prepared.
Here are the equivalents that you can refer.
- 1 cup, julienne strips = 5 medium carrots
- 1 cup, shredded = 2 medium carrots
- 1 cup, thinly sliced = 3 medium carrots
- 1 cup, grated = 2.75 medium carrots
- 1 cup, chopped = 1.5 medium carrots
How Many Large Carrots In A Cup?
Any carrot longer than 7.25 inches and more than 72 grams in weight is considered a large carrot. Usually, a large carrot weighs about 3-4 ounces and measures up to 8-1/2 inches in length.
According to University of Florida, one cup raw carrot equals to one large carrot. Whether peeled, grated, sliced thinly, or grated, you need one large carrot to make one cup.
Selecting And Storing Carrots
The best way to determine the age of carrots is to see the tops. The green tops should be brightly colored and not wilted. If the carrots have no heads attached, check the stem and make sure that it hasn’t turned dark as it indicates old age.
The color of the peel can also determine the freshness of the carrots. The deeper the orange color, the better because it indicates freshness and more beta carotene. If you like sweet carrots, look for ones that have larger diameters because most of the sugar are concentrated on the core.
To store carrots properly, remove the green tops as they seep the moisture from the carrots. Refrigerate the carrots wrapped in paper towels or placed in a piece of plastic for 10-14 days.
Never store the carrots near the apples or pears because the ethylene gas discharged by these fruits can cause a bitter taste to the carrots.
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Preparing Carrots For Cooking
If you’ve bought some organic carrots with bright and firm skins, leave the skin and wash them by gently scrubbing the dirt with a brush. Some packaged baby carrots are already pre-washed and precut, so washing is not necessary. If the stem has turned green, cut it away because it will make the carrot bitter.
Depending on the recipe, you can cut your carrots into different slices. Common cuts include strips, slices, and julienne. If you like to know some basic cuts, you can watch this video for reference.
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To retain the flavor and nutrients of carrots, don’t overcook them. If you’re working with Woody carrots, boil them or mash them together with butter and cream.
Some Delicious Serving Ideas To Enjoy
- Make a healthy carrot cake by folding 3 cups of finely ground carrots into a mixture of sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Place the batter into a pan and bake for about one hour.
- Combine carrots with honey, walnut oil, lemon juice, green apple, and walnuts to make a healthy salad.
- Cook a satisfying beef stew by adding 4 cups of carrots with beef, red wine, and potatoes. Add some spices and seasonings to create a delicious taste.
- Stir fry seasoned steak together with carrots, garlic, ginger, broccoli, and oyster sauce.
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Measure Some Carrots Today!
How many carrots in a cup? Well, that depends on the size of the carrots. You need about 12 baby carrots, 2-5 medium carrots, or 1 large carrot. When buying carrots, make sure that they’re fresh to get the best quality.
Have you tried using carrots for recipes? Let us know in the comments section below. If you like this post, don’t hesitate to share this post with your friends and family.
