California Grown: Carrots

What is a carrot?

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Carrots are a root vegetable that originated in Iran and Afghanistan. It is believed to have been used since 3000 BC, one key thing the iconic Orange coloration we commonly see today was not present in that time, ranging from black, white, red, and purple carrots. The Modern orange color that is so common now first appeared in the Netherlands in the 17th Century.

Carrots spread quickly all around. It was a nutrition-dense crop that was also used for medicinal purposes starting in ancient Egypt, spreading to Greece and Rome. Moving to Asian countries and more, it quickly became a popular crop. China is the top producer of Carrots worldwide, producing more than 15 million tons of carrots a year. 

Where are carrots grown in California?

Carrots are able to be grown year-round in California, it is grown all throughout the state. However, the top states are in the southern part of the state, including Imperial, Monterey, and Los Angeles, and the top producer of carrots in California is Kern County. It is produced on over 70,000 acres of land, and California produces around 90% of the country's carrots.

Cultural importance

In ancient Egypt, carrots were common in harvest drawings and even found in the tombs of Pharaohs. It was used as both medicine and for consumption in Ancient Egypt. Its use for medicinal properties quickly spread to many different countries, from Greece to Japan. 

How can you use carrots?

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Carrots are a versatile vegetable used in savoury dishes, Sweet dishes, and medicinal uses. The whole crop can be used, the leaf tops, the seeds, and even the flowers can be used as garnishes or added to stir fries and soups. One popular recipe is a carrot cake, a sweet take on the vegetable that pairs its natural sweetness with a spiced cake. It is a labour of love with the time it takes to grate all the carrots, but it is worth it in the end result. Another quick recipe is a Morkovchha or a Korean Carrot Salad that involves grating or shaving the root into thin strands and dressing it with sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar, which makes for a wonderful side dish or snack with Korean and Russian inspirations.

Refrences

About. California Fresh Carrot Advisory Board. (n.d.). https://calcarrots.com/about/growing-regions/

Beautiful free images & pictures | unsplash. (n.d.). https://unsplash.com/

History of carrots. Carrot History - Origin and History of Carrots. (n.d.). https://www.vegetablefacts.net/vegetable-history/history-of-carrots/