Online Reporter
Chef Rudo Kandiero
While orange is the most common colour of carrots, they also come in purple, yellow, red and white.
No wonder the term “rainbow carrots” that is used to refer to them. Carrots are among the most popular vegetables, known for their sweet, crunchy texture and excellent vitamin content.
Some varieties are spicier, while others are even sweeter than the classic orange carrot.
This recipe for honey mustard rainbow carrots with silverbeet serves four people and takes approximately 35 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients
For the dish:
750g trimmed rainbow carrots;
Two tablespoons oil;
Two tablespoons cumin, ground;
Two tablespoons paprika;
Silverbeet (local spinach, Swiss chard), one small bunch, shredded;
125g shallots, thinly sliced
For the honey mustard dressing:
80ml/one-third cup olive oil;
Two tablespoons cider vinegar;
One teaspoon Dijon mustard;
One tablespoon honey/maple syrup
Method
In a bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and whisk until well blended. Season to taste.
Toss the carrots with the oil and spices.
Cook them on a heated barbecue or in a pan until tender. Combine the cooked carrots, shredded silverbeet and sliced shallots. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to combine. Season to taste.
Nutritional benefits of carrots
Each colour of carrot offers unique health benefits:
Purple carrots: Rich in antioxidants.
Yellow carrots: Good for vision.
Red carrots: Help fight against heart disease and some cancers.
White carrots: A great source of fibre.
Orange carrots: Help reduce the risk of eye diseases.
Food safety: Pest control guidelines
Pests can pose a significant health risk by contaminating food. Here are signs of common pests and how to prevent them:
Rats and mice: Sightings of rodents, droppings, unpleasant smells, gnawed wires, paw prints, damaged food packaging
or tail marks.
Risks
Rats and mice carry harmful bacteria in their droppings and bodies. They prefer warm, dark corners and can infest sewers and drains.
Flies and wasps Risks
House flies can spread more germs than any other insect, as they land on animal excreta and decaying matter.
Using an electronic fly killer is an effective way to control flying insects. Remember to empty the collecting tray daily.
Fitting insect-proof screens on windows can also help prevent them from entering.
Rudo Kandiero is a qualified chef with a diploma in food preparation and culinary arts, patisserie and food safety. She can be contacted on 0772748509.
