One of the most popular root vegetables in Britain, carrots are a very versatile vegetable. Chantenay carrots are shorter than other cultivars, but much fatter, sometimes growing up to 8 centimetres (3 in) in diameter. They have broad shoulders and taper towards a blunt, rounded tip. Sweet and tasty with a refreshing crunch, carrots are great to eat raw with yummy healthy dips like hummus and guacamole, and work well when roasted.
Carrots are an excellent source of antioxidant compounds, and the richest vegetable source of the pro-vitamin A carotenes. Carrots' antioxidant compounds help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer and also promote good vision, especially night vision. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A. In addition, they are a very good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, dietary fibre and potassium.