Round carrots are members of the Umbelliferae family, which is overwhelmingly comprised of 455 genera and over 3500 species, making this family one of the largest taxon among higher plants. Each plant in this family has the umbrella-like flower clusters at maturity that distinguishes this family of plants. Carrots, in general, are the most important food plant within the Ubelliferae family. Relevenat round carrots varieties include Early Horn, Mini round, Golden Ball and Parisian Rondo.

Round carrots are distinguished by their non-tapering roughly globular shape and petite size, when harvested they are only 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. Their pumpkin orange skin with thread-thin roots encase a nearly coreless orange sweet and firm, dry flesh. Ascending from the roots are thin, dill-like green foliage, which is equally edible, with herbaceous carrot and parsley undertones.

Nutritional Value

In nature, different strains of carrots contain varying types and amounts of carotenoids, the pigments responsible for orange, yellow, and red colors. Brightly orange colored carrots contain the pigments known as carotenoids and flavonoids, two important phytochemicals found in plant foods that provide several antioxidant benefits and defenses against cancer. Orange carrots provide the highest source of Vitamin A of all vegetables.

Serving Ideas

Carrots are one of the most common ingredients found in the kitchen as well as one of the most versatile and fundamental ingredients for culinary use in recipes both sweet and savory. Diced carrots are a key ingredient in soup stocks and broths. While basic stocks and soups rarely achieve their well-rounded flavoring without a carrot, carrots fill many other recipes along with many other ingredients, included simple roasted vegetable medleys along with other winter root vegetables. Carrots are a quintessential ingredient in baked goods such as bread and muffins. Carrots are eaten raw in crudites, pureed into sauces, boiled and fried. Carrots pair well with bacon, butter, radishes, celery, cheeses, especially cheddar, parmesan and pecorino, cinnamon, cream, ginger, parsley, potatoes, mushrooms, shallots, tomatoes and vinegar, especially red and white wine.

Geography/History

In the 17th century, carrots were developed in the Netherlands with denser orange carotene pigment and these were the progenitors of the modern cultivated carrot. Round carrots were originally cultivated because they grow faster than elongated classic varieties and are easier to store. They were made popular by farmers market gardeners in 19th century Paris. Round carrots are grown specifically for poor soil conditions as they have a shallow root system.

Seasons/Availability

Round carrots are available year round.