If you think carrots are only orange, think again. A rainbow of carrot colors is out there, from purple to yellow to white. Yes exist, and they are not just a myth or a mistake. They are a delicious and nutritious variety of carrots that deserve more attention and appreciation. This article will explore everything you need to know about white carrots, from their history and origin to their benefits and uses. Whether you are a gardener, a cook, or just a curious carrot lover, this article is for you.
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Historical References to White Carrots
White carrots are not a new invention or a result of genetic modification. They have been around for centuries and have a rich history and culture. It are believed to have originated in the Middle East, where the ancient Greeks and Romans first cultivated them. They used them for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, infections, and digestive problems.
In Europe, it was grown from as early as the 15th century, but they were not widely available until the 18th century. During this period, it became popular among chefs for its sweet, delicate flavor and ability to add richness and creaminess to soups and sauces. It was also used as animal feed and as a source of sugar before the introduction of sugar beets.
The French loved white carrots and considered them a delicacy and a symbol of elegance. These dishes were frequently presented at royal banquets and festivities, including the 1660 wedding of Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse. It was also featured in classic French dishes, such as pot-au-feu, vichyssoise, and crème brûlée.
They are still grown and enjoyed in many countries worldwide, especially in Europe. They are also gaining popularity in the United States, sometimes marketed as “baby” or “gourmet” carrots.
What Are White Carrots Called?
It go by many names depending on where they are grown and how they are used. Some of the most common words for it are:
- White or golden carrots: These are the most generic names for white carrots that are yellow or cream with a mild, sweet flavor. They are usually smaller than orange carrots but still have plenty of flavor.
- Albino carrots: They lack any pigment due to a genetic mutation or environmental factors. They have an ashen color and a bland taste. They are often used as animal feed or as a source of sugar.
- Arracacha: This root vegetable grows in the Andes and belongs to the carrot family. It has white flesh with purple streaks and a nutty flavor. It is often cooked like potatoes or made into flour or chips.
- Parsnips: These are not white carrots but other root vegetable that looks very similar. They have white flesh with a woody core and a spicy-sweet flavor. They are often roasted or mashed with butter.
White Carrots vs. Parsnips: Dispelling the Confusion
One of the most common sources of confusion regarding white carrots is their resemblance to parsnips. Many people mistake one for the other or use them interchangeably in recipes. However, you should know that white carrots and parsnips are not the same and have some distinct differences.
White Carrots and Parsnips
Appearance:
White carrots and parsnips look similar, but some subtle clues can help you tell them apart. It tends to have smoother skin and thinner roots than parsnips, which have rougher skin and thicker roots. It also has green tops that resemble carrot greens, while parsnips have feathery tops that resemble parsley.
Flavor:
White carrots and parsnips have different flavors that can affect how they taste in dishes. They have a mild, sweet flavor with notes of nuttiness, while parsnips have a spicy-sweet flavor with hints of anise or celery. They are more versatile and can be used in sweet and savory dishes, while parsnips are better suited for delicious dishes that balance their intense flavor.
Nutrition:
White carrots and parsnips have different nutritional profiles that can affect your health benefits. It is high in fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamin A, which are suitable for your eyesight, digestion, and immune system. Parsnips are high in vitamin C, folate, and potassium, ideal for your skin, blood, and heart. Both white carrots and parsnips are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice for your diet.
About Carrots and White Carrots
Carrots are one of the most popular and widely consumed vegetables globally. They belong to the Apiaceae family, including celery, parsley, and fennel. They are biennial plants, which means they grow for two years before producing seeds. In the first year, they produce a rosette of leaves and a taproot that stores energy. In the second year, they produce a flowering stem that produces seeds.
The part of the carrot we eat is the taproot, which can vary in size, shape, color, and flavor depending on the variety. There are hundreds of varieties of carrots, but they can be classified into four main types2: eastern, western, imperator, and Nantes.
Eastern carrots: Experts consider these carrots to be the most ancient and first. They originated in Asia with purple, red, yellow, or white roots. White carrots have a strong flavor and a woody texture. They are rarely eaten raw but are often cooked or pickled.
Western carrots: These are the most common and modern carrots. They originated in Europe and have orange roots. They have a sweet flavor and a crisp texture3. There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy them, whether you prefer them raw or cooked.
Imperator carrots: These are a subtype of western carrots with long, slender roots with tapered ends. They have a lovely flavor and a crunchy texture. They are often sold as “baby” carrots or used for juicing.
Nantes carrots: These are another subtype of western carrots with short, cylindrical roots with blunt ends. They have a mild flavor and a tender texture. They are ideal for salads or snacks.
White carrots belong to the eastern type of carrots but can also be found in some Western varieties. It is pale due to the lack of carotenoids, pigments that give them orange, yellow, or purple hues. Carotenoids are antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage and inflammation.
It may not have as many carotenoids as colored carrots, but they still have other health benefits that make them worth eating. It is high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels. White carrot also contains phytochemicals such as falcarinol and falcarinol, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
White and Yellow Carrots
The Benefits of Growing White Carrots
If you are a gardener or want to start your vegetable patch, you might want to consider growing white carrots. It is easy to grow and has many advantages over other carrots.
Some benefits:
- They are more resistant to pests and diseases than orange carrots. White carrots do not attract as many insects or fungi as orange carrots because they do not have as much sugar or carotenoids. It means you do not have to use as many pesticides or fungicides to protect your crop.
- They are more tolerant of heat and drought than orange carrots. White carrots can withstand higher temperatures and lower water levels than orange carrots because they do not lose as much moisture or nutrients through their skin. It means you do not have to water or mulch them as often as orange carrots.
- They are more adaptable to different soil types than orange carrots. White carrots can grow in a wider range of soil pH levels than orange carrots because they do not depend on carotenoids for their color. It means you do not have to amend your soil as much as orange carrots.
- They are more versatile in the kitchen than orange carrots. White carrots can be used in sweet and savory dishes because they have a mild flavor that does not overpower other ingredients. You can also use them to make soups, sauces, purees, cakes, pies, jams, juices, and more.
Nutritional Benefits of White Carrots
White carrots may not be as colorful as other carrots, but they still pack a punch regarding nutrition. It is low in calories and fat but high in fiber and vitamins.
One cup of chopped raw white carrots (128 grams) provides:
- Calories: 52
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 3.6 grams
- Protein: 1.2 grams
- Vitamin A: 101% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 13% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 20% of the DV
- Folate: 7% of the DV
- Potassium: 9% of the DV
- Calcium: 4% of the DV
- Iron: 2% of the DV
Cultivating White Carrots: A Gardener’s Guide
You must follow some simple steps to ensure a successful harvest to grow your white carrots. Here are some tips on how to cultivate white carrots in your garden.
White Carrot
Choose a suitable variety
There are many varieties of white carrots, but some of the most popular ones are Snow, Lunar, Satin, and White Belgian. You can find seeds or seedlings at your local nursery or online.
Prepare the soil
White carrots prefer deep, loose, sandy loam soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. You can test your soil pH with a kit or a meter and adjust it with lime or sulfur. You should also add some organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve the soil structure and fertility.
Sow the seeds
White carrots can be sown directly in the ground or containers. It would be best if you planted them about two inches apart and half an inch deep in rows that are 12 inches apart6. You can also thin them out later to give them more growth space. It would be best to sow them in early spring or late summer for a fall or winter harvest.
Water and weed
White carrots need regular water during the growing season, especially when they are young and developing their roots. You should water them deeply and evenly, but avoid overwatering or flooding them. It would be best to weed your carrot bed regularly to prevent competition and pests.
Harvest and store
White carrots are ready to harvest when they are about two to three inches in diameter and have a firm texture. You can pull them out by hand or use a fork to loosen the soil around them. It would help if you harvested them before the first frost or covered them with mulch to protect them from freezing. You can store them in a cool, dark, and humid place for several months or refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Delicious Recipes Featuring White Carrots
White carrots are not only nutritious but also delicious. They have a mild, sweet flavor that goes well with many dishes and cuisines. Depending on your preference and mood, you can eat raw, cooked, or juiced.
White Carrot Juice
Here are some of the most delicious recipes featuring white carrots you can try at home.
White Carrot Juice: A Refreshing and Nutritious Beverage
White carrot juice is a refreshing and nutritious beverage you can make in minutes with a juicer or a blender. It has a light, sweet taste that is perfect for breakfast or a snack.
To make white carrot juice, you will need:
- 4 white carrots
- 2 apples
- 1 lemon
- 1 inch of ginger
- Water
To make white carrot juice, you will need to:
- Wash and peel the white carrots, apples, lemon, and ginger.
- Cut them into small pieces and remove any seeds or cores.
- Put them in a juicer and process until you get a smooth juice.
- Alternatively, blend them in a blender with some water until smooth.
- Strain the juice if you prefer a pulp-free texture.
- Enjoy your white carrot juice cold or at room temperature.
Roasted Potato, White Carrot, and Garlic Soup: A Flavorful Delight
Roasted potato, white carrot, and garlic soup is a flavorful delight that will warm you up on a cold day. It has a creamy and smooth texture that is comforting and satisfying.
Flavorful Soup
To make roasted potato, white carrot, and garlic soup, you will need:
- 4 white potatoes
- 4 white carrots
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
To make roasted potato, white carrot, and garlic soup, you will need to:
- To begin, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and chop the white potatoes and white carrots into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel the garlic cloves and leave them whole.
- Toss the potatoes, carrots, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well coated.
- Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until tender and golden.
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot and add the vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Use an immersion or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
People Also Ask
Are White Carrots as Healthy as Orange Carrots?
It is not as healthy as orange carrots in terms of carotenoids, which are the pigments that give carrots their color and antioxidant properties. However, they are still beneficial in other ways, such as fiber, vitamin A, and phytochemicals. It also has less sugar than orange carrots, benefiting people with diabetes or weight issues.
Do White Carrots Taste Different?
It tastes different from orange carrots, but not severely. White carrots have a mild, sweet flavor with notes of nuttiness, while orange carrots have a more robust, earthier flavor. It are more versatile and can be used in sweet and savory dishes, while orange carrots are better suited for delicious dishes that can balance their flavor.
Can White Carrots Be Eaten Raw?
It can be eaten raw, just like orange carrots. They have a crisp and crunchy texture that is great for salads, snacks, or dips. You can also peel and grate them to make a slaw or a cake. However, some people may find white carrots too bland or woody to eat raw, so you may want to cook them to enhance their flavor and texture.
Can I freeze white carrots without blanching?
You can freeze them without blanching, but they will lose their quality faster than blanched ones. They may become discolored, mushy, or bland after a few months in the freezer. Blanching helps preserve their color, texture, flavor, and nutrients for longer.
Conclusion
White carrots are an incredible variety of carrots with much to offer. They have a long and fascinating history, a mild and sweet flavor, and many health benefits. They are also easy to grow and use in the kitchen. Whether you want to juice, roast, or make soup with them, they will not disappoint you. Try them today and discover their charm and potential.
Sources:
(1) What Are White Carrots Called? – Grower Today.
(2) Find Out What Different Colored Carrots Taste Like – The Spruce Eats.
(3) White Carrots: Description, Flavor, Benefits, And Uses.
I am Gaushoul Agam
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ToAgriculture
I am an experienced Horticulture Officer in the Department of Agricultural Extension in Bangladesh. I am committed to improving agriculture and farming.
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