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Root Vegetables Delivery or Pickup
The Instacart guide to root vegetables
About root vegetables
Make a point of embracing more root vegetables in your daily diet. Some of the less popular ones may have thick, unattractive skins and have a reputation for tasting bitter and unpleasant, but you may find them delicious. With more than two dozen different types of root vegetables available, from carrots to kohlrabi, you're bound to find some new ones that will work with your palate and recipes.Â
Here are some root vegetables:
- Beets.
- Carrots.
- Fennel.
- Garlic.
- Ginger.
- Kohlrabi.
- Onions.
- Parsnips.
- Potatoes.
- Radishes.
- Rutabagas.
- Sweet potatoes.
- Turmeric.
- Turnips.
- Yuca root.
Technically, these root vegetables are not all roots, as some form bulbous growths that store nutrients to feed the vegetable during cooler months. For instance, onions and fennel are considered bulbs, taproots include carrots and beets, and rhizomes include ginger and turmeric.
Once you figure out which one of these delicious root vegetables you want to use for your next dish, let Instacart save you time with shopping! Open the Instacart app and find the specific root vegetables you want to purchase. Once you check out, an Instacart shopper will get started on your order. You may even have the vegetables at your door in as little as 2 hours!
How to tell if root vegetables are ripe
Most root vegetables are available year-round, but their peak season runs from the fall through the spring. The exception to this is beets, which are in season from summer through fall. When the root vegetables are in season, they are often juicier and have a deeper flavor in their roots.
When selecting root vegetables, do the opposite of what you do when you choose fruits. You want hard vegetables — the harder, the better. Avoid those that have bruised or cut roots. For root vegetables that have stems, such as beets, look for those that have firm, bright leaves and stems.
How to prepare root vegetables
Root vegetables are the foundation of many fall dishes, but you don't need to wait until that time of the year to enjoy them. Since they tend to have an earthy flavor and a hard texture, many are best consumed when cooked. Since they're such a versatile food, you can prepare them the following ways:
- Grill: Brush the peeled and thinly sliced vegetables with oil, and place them on the grill along with summer vegetables. They end up with a smoky flavor, which softens the overall earthy flavor.
- Raw: Some root vegetables, such as carrots and radishes, can be enjoyed raw. You might wish to slice them or add dips or dressings to create a pleasant snack.
- Roast: This is an easy way to cultivate more flavor and change the hard texture to something easier to bite and chew. Simply chop up the vegetables, drizzle olive oil over them, sprinkle on some seasoning, and place them on a baking sheet. Put the sheet in the oven, and you'll end up with a delicious dish.
- Saute: When preparing a stir-fry dish, consider sauteing your root vegetables. This quick and easy method for preparing the vegetables can enhance the flavors of the accompanying ingredients. If you plan to use other vegetables, make sure you saute the root vegetables first since they take the longest to cook.
- Steam or boil: Use this method if you plan to puree or mash the vegetables, such as for a creamy soup or mashed sweet potatoes.
FAQs about root vegetables
Although the best way to store root vegetables depends on the specific type you've purchased, most rely on a cool dark place to keep. A root cellar or any area of your home that stays below 60 degrees Fahrenheit is a perfect location, but make sure the temperature stays consistent. You can enjoy your root vegetables for longer if you store them this way.
You can also store them in the refrigerator. Keep the vegetables in a plastic bag, and place them in the crisper. Don't put them in the refrigerator without covering them, as this can cause the vegetables to soften and go bad quickly. Depending on the vegetable, they can last for anywhere from several days to several weeks.
Root vegetables are some of the healthiest and heartiest foods you'll find because they grow underground and absorb nutrients directly from the soil. Although they all have their own specific set of health benefits, many share the same characteristics. They all tend to have vitamins A, B, and C, as well as iron. They're also filled with carbohydrates and fiber, both of which help you stay full, regulate your blood sugar, and help your digestive system. As a result, these low-calorie root vegetables are an ideal food if you're hoping to stay healthy or lose some weight.