Carrot microgreens are like eating the sweet taste of carrots but as feathery greens! They have the same texture as dill but taste nothing like it!
WHAT ARE CARROT MICROGREENS?
Carrot microgreens have a sweet and slightly earthy taste, just like full-grown carrots. But here’s the cool part: they’re super nutritious and easy to grow at home! These tiny greens are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
You can sprinkle carrot microgreens on top of salads, and sandwiches, or even use them as a garnish for your dishes. They add a burst of flavor. It’s like having a little piece of the garden right on your plate.
| Growing period | 14+ days |
| Flavor | Sweet and earthy |
| Growing difficulty | Easy |
| Buy seeds | Carrot seeds from True Leaf Market |
DESCRIPTION
Imagine these cute little green sprouts that pop up when carrot seeds start growing. They’re like the baby siblings of regular carrots, just a few inches tall. Growing carrots as microgreens, you will eat only the feathery greens.
They grow from tiny seeds and taste sweet and earthy, with a hint of nuttiness. You can use them in lots of different recipes because of their mild flavor.
They look slender, with feathery leaves and a captivating aroma just like fresh carrots. They’re full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are really good for you. So, they’re not only tasty but also super healthy!
GENERAL NUTRITION & BENEFITS
Carrot microgreens are like tiny health superheroes! They’re packed with important stuff like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, potassium, folate, and beta-carotene.
Plus, they have lots of antioxidants, which are like shields for your health. So, eating carrot microgreens is a really healthy choice!
HOW TO GROW CARROT MICROGREENS
The timeline for growing carrot microgreens typically spans around 10 to 14 days from sowing the seeds to harvest.
It’s essential to monitor the growth of your carrot microgreens regularly to determine the optimal time for harvesting. If they are left to grow too long, they may become tougher and less tender. Harvest by cutting them just above the soil level using clean scissors or shears.
Remember that environmental conditions, such as temperature and light, can affect the growth rate, so the timeline can vary slightly. Providing consistent moisture and adequate light will help ensure a successful harvest of flavorful and nutritious carrot microgreens.
| Growing timeline (estimated) | |
|---|---|
| Presoak | No |
| Preferred medium | Soil or coconut coir |
| Avg. seed weight (10/20 tray) | 28 grams (1 oz) |
| Germination period (blackout) | Day 1-6 |
| Growth time (sunlight) | Day 7-14 |
| Harvest | Day 14+ |
PLANTING & GERMINATION
To grow carrot microgreens, choose a clean container with drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting soil or other growing medium such as coconut coir. Scatter carrot seeds evenly on the soil’s surface, lightly pressing them in. Cover initially to create humidity, then remove once sprouted.
Provide ample light, using grow lights if necessary, positioned 2-4 inches above for 12-15 hours daily. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, using a misting or fine spray method to avoid disturbing delicate seedlings.
GROWING
Carrot microgreens typically take 10-14 days to reach the ideal harvesting height, which is usually around 2-3 inches. Keep an eye on them as they grow to ensure they’re not overcrowded.
HARVEST
When your carrot microgreens reach the desired height, use clean scissors or sharp knife to cut them just above the soil level. You can harvest the entire tray at once or harvest as needed.
Use your carrot microgreens immediately for the freshest taste and maximum nutrition. If you have excess, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.
Remember that maintaining proper moisture levels and providing adequate light is crucial for the successful growth of carrot microgreens.
CULINARY GUIDING
Carrot microgreens are loved for their fresh and delicate flavor. They are used as a garnish or incorporated into various culinary dishes, including:
- Salads – sprinkle carrot microgreens over salads to add flavor, texture, and a nutritional boost.
- Sandwiches – use them as a fresh and crunchy addition to sandwiches and wraps.
- Soups – add carrot microgreens as a finishing touch to soups and stews.
- Smoothies – blend them into smoothies for added nutrition and a hint of sweetness.
- Garnish – decorate dishes with carrot microgreens to enhance their visual appeal.
Carrot microgreens are not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making them a popular choice for chefs and home cooks alike. They are easy to grow indoors, making them accessible year-round and a great addition to your home garden or culinary repertoire.
