5 Easy Ways To Clean Your Root Vegetables Before Cooking Them

Washing vegetables, especially root vegetables is a crucial step before cooking them. Root vegetables, known for their incredible health benefits are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. However, they often come covered in dirt, mud, germs or pesticides which can be detrimental to our health. Thus, proper washing becomes essential to remove these contaminants and ensure the vegetables are safe to eat.

By washing root vegetables thoroughly, we can reap their nutritional benefits while minimising the health risks and foodborne illnesses associated with consuming contaminated produce. Here, we've compiled some easy yet effective ways that you can try to clean your root veggies properly before cooking them.

Ways To Clean Root Vegetables

Rinse Under Cold Water

Rinse root vegetables under cold running water to remove dirt and debris. Place the vegetables in a colander or hold them under running water for a thorough rinse. Gently scrub with your hands or a vegetable brush, paying attention to nooks and crannies, especially on potatoes and beets. A brush helps clean tough skins like potatoes and carrots.

Vinegar Solution

Soaking root vegetables in a vinegar solution effectively removes pesticides and germs. Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water and submerge the vegetables for at least 10 minutes. Then, rinse the vegetables properly under cold water. Vinegar's antibacterial properties will kill bacteria, dissolve pesticide residues and loosen embedded dirt.

Peel The Skin

For extra cleanliness and taste, some root vegetables may require peeling. If the skin is thick or contaminated, peeling with a vegetable peeler or knife is best. This removes the outer skin where dirt, wax coatings and pesticide residues often accumulate, especially in vegetables like potatoes and carrots.

Ways to clean root veggies properly (Image Credits: Canva)

Baking Soda Solution

For stubborn dirt and residues, try using baking soda. Sprinkle a small amount on the root vegetables, then scrub with a brush or cloth under running water. Baking soda's mild abrasiveness dislodges dirt, neutralises acids and breaks down pesticide residues, leaving vegetables cleaner and safer to eat.

Salt Water

You can also remove the dirt from root veggies with a pinch of salt. Sprinkle salt over damp veggies and scrub with your hands. The rough texture acts as a natural exfoliator while removing tricky grime. Rinse thoroughly to avoid salty particles and enjoy clean veggies with minimal effort and no harsh chemicals.

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